Normal embryonic development of the cardiovascular system involves the transition from a primitive single-chambered tube into a highly specialized, 4-chambered heart.
Each set of events is arranged as a tutorial. it is suggested that each tutorial be followed in the order presented, as later topics are based upon and build from earlier material.
The following discussions follow a logical progression. It is strongly recommended to follow the prompts at the end of each section. Tutorial 1: Early Events
Establishment of basic cell populations and architecture upon which further changes occur.
Tutorial 2: Critical Changes
Internal changes which model the heart tube into the 4-chambered adult configuration.
Tutorial 3: Vascular Changes
These changes transform the symmetric embryonic vasculature into the asymmetrical adult configuration.