Time and development.
The role that biological timers play in gametogenesis and development is reviewed through use of selected examples. Some general features of biological timers are also reviewed, and two types of timing mechanism are discussed in more detail: circadian rhythms and cell-cycle-based timers. In particular, the recent evidence that oscillatory ion channel activity may play an important role in timing mechanisms is summarized. The activity and properties of an oscillatory K(+) channel present during preimplantation mouse development are described, and preliminary results from its neutralization are discussed.
Johnson
M H
MH
Department of Anatomy, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3DY, UK. mhj@mole.bio.cam.ac.uk
D000818:Animals; D001683:Biological Clocks; D002453:Cell Cycle / Q000502:physiology; D002940:Circadian Rhythm; D005854:Germ Cells / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*