Evo Devo of the Vertebrate Integument

The review "Evo Devo of the Vertebrates Integument" explores the evolutionary development of vertebrate integumentary structures, such as teeth, scales, feathers, and hair, highlighting the conserved molecular pathways (e.g., Shh, BMP, Wnt, FGF) involved in their formation. It emphasizes that these structures evolved from a common ancestor with a shared placode/dermal cells unit around 420 million years ago. The document discusses the role of specific signaling pathways in the development and differentiation of these appendages, the evolutionary transitions from aquatic to terrestrial life, and the genetic and environmental factors influencing integumentary evolution. Experiments demonstrate the necessity of these pathways for proper morphogenesis, with variations in signaling leading to the diversity of skin appendages across species.