Abstract

Human life begins at fertilization. The embryo’s genetic information constitutes a self-organizing biochemical machinery that will trigger a highly coordinated, continuous and gradual process ---unmistakably the biological wonder behind the organization of the human body. This article briefly addresses some of the main mechanisms regarding genetic control of human embryo development, complemented by a few illustrative examples. Does this constitute useful information for physicians, scientists, bioethicists, academics and students in general? Knowledge about such development will lead to better understanding of the stages of embryonic development in sickness and in health; in addition, the knowledge about the complex genetic regulation of embryo development provides a solid biological basis to fight for the right to life and protection of the human embryo, acknowledging his/her dignity as a living member of the human species