Morphogenetic movements occurring during formation of the primitive streak in the chick embryo are of a periodic nature, with a mean frequency of one pulse every 2·6 min. The period of the oscillatory movement is shown to be temperature-dependent. The onset of these pulses of movement can be seen as a slow wave starting at the posterior end of the embryo and making its way towards the anterior end. An interpretation of this behaviour is discussed.

Copyright © 1977 by Company of Biologists
1977
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