Sean Hirshel L.

Cusi
4Bio2
Gastrulation Zebrafish
Gastrulation is the process that results in the formation of the different germ
layers. In zebrafish, 3 distinct processes is involved namely, epiboly, involution and
convergent extension. Epiboly in zebrafish has been extensively studied since their
development allows for an easy visualization of epiboly. It occurs shortly after MBT,
it allows the margin to move down and cover the yolk cell. Its movement is driven by
the YSL.
Involution occurs at 50% epiboly, it is where the margin of the blastoderm
involute to form a lower layer called hypoblast or mesendoderm. The blastoderm
thickens and is now called the germ ring. Involution is only carried out by the deep
cells and the outer layer doesnt take part. The outer layer will form the periderm.
Convergent extension occurs simultaneously with involution. It is where the
dorsal region elongates in a anteroposterior sense, drawing in cells from lateral
regions. This process causes the dorsal marginal zone to thicken and form the
embryonic shield, which is homologous to the dorsal lip of the blastopore of the
Xenopus and the Hensens node of a chick.