Segmentation of the Drosophila embryo

Segmentation in Drosophila is a sequential process directed by at least 30 genes that encode various types of proteins, including: many transcription factors; a putative RNA-binding protein; a membrane-associated receptor kinase; several intracellular protein kinases; a number of secreted signaling molecules; and others of unknown function. Although the detailed molecular reactions used to generate the metameric subdivisions of the embryo are not yet understood, a general outline of the processes involved has been described. The manner in which spatial relations in the developing embryo are established can now be described.