Developmental Biology in México

Area of Science:

• Developmental Biology
• Organismal Development
• Ontogeny

Background:

• Scientific research in Mexico is largely driven by public institutions, including the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN).
• The establishment of research institutes and centers within these universities marked the beginning of specialized scientific fields, including developmental biology.
• Early research in developmental biology in Mexico focused on specific model organisms and developmental processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To chronicle the establishment and evolution of developmental biology research in Mexico.
• To highlight the contributions of pioneering scientists and the diverse model systems employed.
• To provide a personal account of witnessing the growth of this scientific field in the country.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of scientific institutions and research origins in Mexico.
• Description of early experimental approaches using chick embryos for heart and limb development studies.
• Overview of various animal models utilized, including mammals (mouse, rat, rabbit, naked mole-rat), wild species (sea turtles, bats), and invertebrates (Drosophila melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans).

Main Results:

• Developmental biology in Mexico originated within major public universities, UNAM and IPN.
• A variety of model organisms, from chick embryos to invertebrates like Drosophila, have been instrumental in research.
• Both animal and plant model-based research have yielded significant contributions, with pioneers in both areas deserving equal recognition.

Conclusions:

• The field of developmental biology in Mexico has a rich history rooted in public institutions and diverse research models.
• The contributions of all researchers, irrespective of their chosen model system, are crucial for the advancement of scientific knowledge.
• The author shares a personal perspective as an observer of the field's formative years in Mexico.