Random OB/GYN study thought

In the 17-19th day of embryo formation, a gene called the 'shh gene' gives rise to the cells that will form the brain...as well as skin, hair or feathers.

In the 17-19th day of embryo formation, a gene called the shh gene gives rise to the cells that will form the brain, as well as skin, hair or feathers.

The ‘hh’ stands for ‘hedgehog’, because a mutation in the gene causes the fetus to become pointy and resemble a hedgehog.

There is an old fairytale called, “Jack My Hedgehog,’ in which a woman wishes for a baby, “Even if it be only as small and ugly as a hedgehog.” She gets her wish, literally.

All this taken together just makes me love everything.

Incidentally, the ‘s’ in shh stands for Sonic, from the video game. That part just makes me laugh.


I'm starting my Labor and Delivery Clinical the week after next.