EXAMINATION OF 3-DIMENSIONAL MOVEMENTS IN HUMAN EMBRYOS USING COMPUTER IMAGING TECHNOLOGY

This paper describes the use of computer imaging technology to study i n three dimensions the dynamics of differentiations in human embryos. Three-dimensional computer reconstruction technology was used to build a series of models of the brain/face and the ear region from fixed, s erially sectioned embryos at representative stages. When certain princ iples are followed each model can be equated to one frame on a motion picture film. The dynamics of differentiation are then revealed as cha nges in size, shape and position (growth movements) of multiple struct ures as they build the definitive arrangement. Copyright (C) 1996 Else vier Science Ltd.