Morphogenesis is the biological process that causes an organism to develop its shape and structure. It involves the coordination of cell growth, differentiation, and movement, leading to the formation of tissues and organs. This process is crucial during the early stages of development, such as in embryos, where cells organize into specific patterns to create functional body parts.
The study of morphogenesis encompasses various fields, including developmental biology and genetics. Researchers investigate how genes and environmental factors influence the shape and form of organisms. Understanding morphogenesis can provide insights into developmental disorders and evolutionary biology, revealing how different species adapt their structures over time.