Led by Lewis Wolpert, an influential developmental biologist, this distinguished team of authors presents a new and revised edition of the best-selling and popular textbook Principles of Development . Central to their approach is an emphasis on principles and key concepts as well as the idea that understanding how genes control cell behavior is the key to comprehending development. The authors assume that students are familiar with the basics of cell biology and genetics but also provide thorough explanations of all key concepts in the text, such as the control of gene activity. The book focuses on those systems-such as vertebrates and Drosophila-that best illuminate the common principles of development, and also discusses other systems like the nematode and sea urchin. A unique feature of the book is its coverage of plant development, which is usually neglected in other textbooks but has significant relevance to the field of developmental biology. Full of spectacular illustrations and diagrams, Principles of Development, Second Edition , provides the excellent content and quality design of its predecessor, and also incorporates valuable new material.