Morphogens are signaling molecules that play a crucial role in the development of organisms. They are distributed unevenly in a developing tissue, creating a concentration gradient that helps cells understand their position and fate. This process is essential for proper tissue formation and organ development. When cells detect different concentrations of morphogens, they respond by activating specific genes, leading to various developmental outcomes. For example, in Drosophila (fruit flies), morphogens like Bicoid and Nanos help establish the body plan during early embryonic development. Understanding morphogens is vital for insights into developmental biology and potential medical applications.