The DNA studies of the last decades have revealed numerous regulatory factors shaping our body starting at the early stages of embryogenesis. The range of expression of these factors determines the range of anatomic variability of our population. While the multi-tiered mechanisms of the molecular regulation of embryogenesis are actively studied, it is a right time to tie them with the developing shapes and patterns of body systems.

This special issue is designed to reassess the origin and range of the anatomic variability of the human body from the genetic point of view. We aim to gather the available resources and data on the molecular mechanisms of regulation involved in the formation of organs and neurovasculature of the human body to estimate genetic potentials and mechanisms of formation of the wide diapason of variability. The systematic studies on the variability of organ systems should include the overview of the genetic factors involved. To explain the formation of rare anatomic variants submitted under “case report” label the detailed analysis of involved molecular mechanisms and factors is required. The phylogenetic comparison is encouraged as well, as it helps to understand the direction of evolution in general.

Such reconsideration of anatomic variability allows drawing a parallel between the genetic origins and final shapes providing the key for a deeper understanding of human nature and diversity of our population.

Aims and Scope: