Human facial configuration is formed by fusion and absorption of different tissue structures in a preplanned genetically programmed planes . The developing cardiogenic area lies right in the cranial end of the neural tube which enlarges to grow as face .The timing as well the location of facial plates are closely related to cardiac development. As the head end unfolds to take it’s shape , the heart folds to form the chambers and the great vessels , septum and valves are subsequently cleaved . Even minor genetic errors in the codes that initiate and coordinate the bio-genetic forces in the cardiogenic area , results in simultaneous defects in facial as well as cardiac contour .
There is a proposed embryonal classification for congenital heart disease (Clarkes ) The genetic defect responsible for cono-truncal anomalies are located in chromosome Q22.
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It is stunning to note some of the plant species (Chinese Ginseng) express unusual human phenotypes , indicating the genetic codes responsible for such things are beyond human comprehension . If one can demystify the genetic basis of this perfectly smiling fruit plant with a human face , we may also know what makes it to go awry in human CHD !
Dr.S.Venkatesan MD 