The significance of ultradian oscillations in development

Abstract

Genes regulating developmental processes have been identified, but the mechanisms underlying their expression with the correct timing are still under investigation. Several genes show oscillatory expression that regulates the timing of developmental processes, such as somitogenesis and neurogenesis. These oscillations are also important for other developmental processes, such as cell proliferation and differentiation. In this review, we discuss the significance of oscillatory gene expression in developmental time and other forms of regulation.