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The embryology of the guinea pig. II. The polydactylous monster. A new teras produced by the genes PxPx
Author(s) -
Scott J. P.
Publication year - 1938
Publication title -
journal of morphology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.652
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1097-4687
pISSN - 0362-2525
DOI - 10.1002/jmor.1050620207
Subject(s) - biology , anatomy , monster , microphthalmia , embryology , morphogenesis , ectromelia , gene , genetics , physics , quantum mechanics , virus
A detailed study of Wright's polydactylous monster (produced by a semi‐dominant lethal gene) indicates that it belongs to a general type found also in rare human cases. The diagnostic characteristics are: clubbed feet and approximately double the usual number of digits, embryonic posture, microphthalmia and enlargement of the diencephalon, and missing tibia and telescoped sternum; all organ systems in the body except the genital and circulatory are grossly abnormal. The defects appear to be produced by an arrest of morphogenesis and an alteration of relative growth rates. It is indicated that a controlling center of digit formation exists on the lateral (postaxial) side of the foot, that skeletal and dermal structures are controlled by it, but that muscles are differentiated according to the area of the limb in which they lie. The gene itself is not atavistic, although its effects in the heterozygote have that appearance.