Chapter 3 - Meiosis and DevelopmentPrenatal Infection as a Risk Factor for SchizophreniaFocusing on the development of a fetus, there is much to recognize. The reproductive system is detailed and pregnancy can be easily compromised. As a woman who may potentially want to reproduce, the topic of pregnancy is usually an interesting one. There is a large amount of information based on pregnancy and fetal development, but I would like to focus on birth defects. Birth defects can arise from several factors such as genetics, teratogens and prenatal infections. The internal female anatomy that allows reproduction is extremely unique. From the ovary, also known as the female gamete, eggs or oocytes are produced. These eggs, once fertilized, can complete the process of meiosis, where daughter cells are formed. These daughter cells provide the embryo with its chromosomes in order to fully develop. Problems can also arise once sperm fertilize an egg. Birth defects that follow patterns throughout a family lineage would be considered genetic or hereditary. Teratogens are classified as any substance that can have negative effects on the development of the fetus or embryo. For example, it is widely known that substances such as alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy cause birth defects and can even lead to miscarriages. I focus on a study by Alan S. Brown, who proposes that in addition to teratogens and genetic makeup, certain prenatal infections lead to a birth defect that does not appear at birth, but appears at birth. adulthood: schizophrenia. Factor for Schizophrenia focuses on infections that may specifically cause schizophrenia. "Prenatal infections that have been associated...... middle of paper ...... affect" offspring, as well as the possibility of environmental factors. There are many ways a fetus or embryo can be affected, and the more the causes of problems are known, the more doctors and scientists can prevent problems. Prenatal infection as a risk factor for schizophrenia creates a model for future studies. The idea of ​​only researching schizophrenia was not my intention, but it sets an example that fetuses are exposed to everything while still in the female womb. The mother is capable of transmitting much more than her own chromosomes; everything she does and is exposed to during pregnancy will affect the child. Although fetal development is complicated and can be easily compromised, I, like all other expectant mothers, find it a subject of interest. Any action that can be taken to prevent difficulties in a child's life is worth exploring..