A groundbreaking book co-authored by the Nobel Prize winner who discovered telomerase and telomeres' role in the aging process and the health psychologist who has done original research into how specific lifestyle and psychological habits can protect telomeres, slowing disease and improving life.

An age old mystery, the development of the microscopic embryo into exceedingly complex plants and animals--into roses and cacti, elephants and blue whales, apes and human beings--stands as one of the most fundamental and important questions facing modern biologists. How does one cell give rise to so many millions of cells? How do they divide so as to form hearts, brains, eyes, and ears? Where in this pin-head-sized object is all this information encoded? Now, in The Triumph of the Embryo, biologist Lewis Wolpert answers these and other questions in a lucid tour of embryology, which offers the latest theories in this fascinating field. Filled with rich and unusual examples, metaphors, and descriptions, Wolpert moves beyond his overall narrative to discuss the many issues it raises, such as aging, cancer, regeneration, and evolution. Readers discover why all calico cats are female; encounter a fruit fly engineered to grow a leg out of its head; and find out why there seems to be a 110 year age barrier for the human body. Clearly written and illustrated with striking examples, The Triumph of the Embryo offers a dazzling look at the marvels of modern biology.

Each of us begins our path in life as a single cell. Just thinking about this common process can fill us with a sense of wonder--and raise a host of questions. How does an egg cell multiply to develop into a human being, an animal, or a plant? How do cells form a brain, a face, a hand? And how does the pattern continue generation after generation? With great insight and unwavering enthusiasm, biology professor Lewis Wolpert presents this complex subject in a "clear and engagingly written book" (Nature) that even the layman can understand. Illuminating the subject with twelve remarkable full-page photographs and numerous informative illustrations, this landmark guide shows the separation, growth, and differentiation of various cells and body parts in the embryonic stage. Simple descriptions of Wolpert's experimental studies offer fascinating insights into topics such as aging, cancer, regeneration, and evolution. Addressing the mysteries that face modern biologists--and all of mankind-- The Triumph of the Embryo is a "fascinating read for anyone curious about the replication and development of life"-- (Science News) . A new preface has been provided by the author.