Raphaella

Flores

CHEMICAL
CHANGES IN STAGES
OF DEVELOPMENT
HYPOTHESIS
The chemical changes that occur in humans throughout their lives
and different phases are influenced by various factors such as
age, hormonal fluctuations, environmental exposures, and
lifestyle choices.
Introduction
Chemical changes in humans are fundamental
processes that occur at the cellular and molecular
level and are essential for the normal functioning of
the body. These changes are responsible for
maintaining homeostasis, allowing growth and
development, and performing all vital functions.
PRENATAL
STAGE
 The embryo undergoes rapid development. The
major organs and body systems begin to form,
First trimester and the heartbeat can be detected. The mother
may experience symptoms such as morning
sickness and fatigu

Prenatal The fetus continues to grow and develop. Facial

features become more defined, and the baby

Stage Second trimester

starts to move and kick. By the end of this
trimester, the mother can usually feel the baby's
movements. The fetus also develops a sleep-
wake cycle and can respond to external stimuli.
The prenatal stage refers to
the period of development
from conception to birth. It is
divided into three trimesters,
each lasting for three
months. The final stage of prenatal development. The fetus
continues to gain weight and grow in preparation for
Third trimester birth. The mother may experience discomfort, such
as back pain and difficulty sleeping. The fetus
becomes more active and settles into a head-down
position in preparation for delivery.
 Chemical changes in
prenatal development

EMBRYO FETUS ORGAN FORMATION AND GROWTH

Is the period from fertilization to the
formation of the basic body plan of the
organism. These changes involve various
chemical reactions and molecular
processes that drive the growth,
differentiation, and organization of cells
into tissues and organs.
Chemical changes in the fetus occur as
part of its normal development and
growth. These changes involve a complex
interplay of various biological processes,
hormones, and genetic factors.
The formation and growth of organs
during fetal development involve a series
of intricate chemical processes that are
tightly regulated by genetic factors,
signaling molecules, and cellular
interactions.
Embryo
Cell Division: The embryo begins as a single fertilized egg cell, or zygote. Cell division, primarily
through mitosis, results in the formation of a multicellular embryo. This process involves the
replication of DNA, followed by the separation of chromosomes into two daughter cells, each with
a full set of genetic information.

Morphogenesis: Morphogenesis is the process by which the embryo acquires its three-
dimensional structure and body plan.

Tissue Formation: Cells within the embryo organize themselves into distinct tissues and organs.
Chemical signaling and adhesion molecules guide cells to their appropriate locations.

Growth and Nutrient Uptake: As the embryo grows, it requires nutrients and energy for its
development. Chemical changes occur in the form of metabolic processes.

Hormonal Regulation: Hormones are chemical messengers that can influence gene expression
and cellular responses.

Extracellular Matrix: The extracellular matrix, composed of various proteins and carbohydrates,
undergoes chemical changes to provide structural support to developing tissues. This matrix also
helps regulate cell behavior, such as cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation.
Fetus
Cellular Division and Growth: Fetal development begins with the fertilization of an egg by a sperm
cell, resulting in the formation of a zygote. The zygote undergoes rapid cell division through
processes such as mitosis, leading to the formation of an embryo.

Embryonic Development: As the embryo develops, various signaling molecules, such as growth
factors and morphogens. These molecules trigger specific chemical reactions within cells, guiding
them to become different types of tissues and organs.

Hormonal Regulation: Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estrogen, and progesterone, are
produced in large quantities during pregnancy. These hormones are essential for maintaining the
pregnancy, supporting the growth of the placenta, and preparing the mother's body for childbirth.

Nutrient Exchange: This process involves the exchange of chemicals such as glucose, amino
acids, and oxygen between the maternal and fetal bloodstreams, facilitated by various transport
mechanisms and enzymes.

Bone Formation: The development of the fetal skeleton involves the deposition of minerals,
primarily calcium and phosphate, into the developing bones.
Organ formation and growth
Cellular Differentiation: The initial step in organ formation is the differentiation of stem cells into
specialized cell types. This process is controlled by chemical signals, often in the form of growth
factors and morphogens. These molecules bind to receptors on cell surfaces, triggering
intracellular chemical cascades that activate specific genes.

Cell Proliferation: Cell division is regulated by various chemical factors, including cyclins and
cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), which control the cell cycle. The balance between cell
proliferation and cell death (apoptosis) is crucial for organ growth and development.

Apoptosis: Controlled cell death or apoptosis is a chemical process that helps shape organs. It
eliminates excess or unnecessary cells, sculpting the developing organ's structure and ensuring
proper functionality.

Metabolic Changes: As organs grow and become functional, their metabolic activity changes. For
example, the liver undergoes significant chemical changes to support its role in detoxification,
metabolism, and the synthesis of proteins.
 Physical
During the prenatal stage, a number
of physical changes occur in the
developing fetus, including the
growth and development of the
organs and systems of the body, as
well as the development of the limbs
and head. Changes in the external
appearance of the fetus also occur,
such as the development of
distinctive facial features and hair
growth.
Psychological
The prenatal stage is a period of
psychological changes for both the
mother and the developing fetus.
The mother may experience a mix
of emotions and changes in her
perception of herself and her
future role as a mother. For its part,
the fetus begins to respond to
external stimuli and may
experience feelings of pleasure or
discomfort. The mother's emotional
environment can also affect the
development of the fetus.
Cognitive
During the prenatal stage, important
cognitive changes occur in the
development of the fetus. Although
it cannot be fully assessed at this
stage, it has been observed that the
fetus can respond to auditory and
tactile stimuli, recognize its
mother's voice, and possibly learn
and remember certain repetitive
stimuli.
Socio-emotional
It has been shown that the fetus can
feel and respond to emotional stimuli
from very early in pregnancy, it is also
exposed to the emotions and moods of
the mother and experiences positive
emotions and happiness, this can also
have a beneficial effect on the baby.
Children continue to develop their
emotional skills throughout childhood
and adolescence, influenced by a
variety of environmental and social
factors.
 INFANCY AND
CHILDHOOD STAGE
 Infancy and
Childhood stage
Infancy and childhood are distinct stages in human
development, characterized by significant physical, cognitive,
social, and emotional changes. These stages encompass the
first few years of life and early childhood, providing the
foundation for a person's lifelong development.
 Growth hormone, also known as somatotropin, is a peptide hormone
secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain. It plays a crucial role in the
growth and development of tissues and bones throughout the body.

Growth Hormone The chemical structure of growth hormone consists of a sequence of

191 amino acids. It belongs to a family of hormones called the
somatotropic axis, which includes other hormones like insulin-like
growth factor 1 (IGF-1).

Thyroid hormones are a group of hormones that play a

crucial role in regulating various metabolic processes in the
body. The primary thyroid hormones are triiodothyronine
Thyroid hormones (T3) and thyroxine (T4). The thyroid hormone is well known
for controlling metabolism, growth, and many other bodily
functions.

Estrogen is responsible for the development and maintenance of

female reproductive organs, such as the uterus and breasts. It also
plays a role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and the
Estrogen and development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as widening of
the hips and the growth of pubic hair. Progesterone, on the other hand,

progesterone is involved in the preparation of the uterus for pregnancy. It helps to

thicken the lining of the uterus, making it more receptive to a fertilized
egg and supporting early pregnancy if it occurs.

Testosterone is a hormone primarily associated with the

male reproductive system, although it is present in both
males and females, albeit in different quantities. This
Testosterone hormone also signals the body to make new blood cells,
ensures that muscles and bones stay strong during and
after puberty and enhances libido both in men and women.
Growth Hormone
In terms of chemical changes, growth hormone influences several metabolic processes in the
body. It increases protein synthesis, leading to an increase in muscle mass and overall body
growth. It also stimulates lipolysis, the breakdown of fats, leading to increased availability of fatty
acids for energy production. Growth hormone enhances the uptake of amino acids into cells and
the conversion of these amino acids into proteins.

Additionally, growth hormone promotes the uptake of glucose into cells, contributing to increased
energy metabolism and insulin resistance. It also influences bone growth and mineralization by
enhancing the synthesis of collagen and other components of the extracellular matrix.

Overall, growth hormone induces a variety of chemical changes in the body related to
metabolism, cell division, and protein synthesis to support growth and development.
Thyroid Hormones
Iodine uptake: The thyroid gland extracts iodine from the bloodstream and concentrates it within
its cells using an active transport mechanism.

Hormone synthesis: MIT and DIT residues within thyroglobulin are combined to produce T3 and
T4. T4 is the major hormone produced, while T3 is a more biologically active form.

Release of thyroid hormones: When stimulated by signals from the hypothalamus and pituitary
gland, thyroid hormones are cleaved from the thyroglobulin molecule and released into the
bloodstream.

Binding proteins: Once in the bloodstream, a significant portion of thyroid hormones binds to
transport proteins, mainly thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG).

Metabolism and elimination: Thyroid hormones undergo metabolism in the liver and other tissues,
leading to the formation of inactive metabolites. Eventually, they are excreted from the body
through urine and feces.
Estrogen and progesterone
Reproductive Changes: Estrogen and progesterone are critical for the regulation of the menstrual
cycle and the development of the female reproductive system. In childhood, the reproductive
organs, including the uterus and ovaries, are still immature and not actively involved in
reproductive processes.

Growth and Development: Estrogen and progesterone do play minor roles in bone growth and
density regulation, but these effects are not as prominent in childhood as they are during
adolescence and adulthood.

Hormonal Imbalance: While estrogen and progesterone levels are low in childhood, imbalances in
these hormones during this period can have health implications. Conditions like precocious
puberty, where puberty begins too early, or delayed puberty, where it starts later than usual, can
occur due to hormonal imbalances.
Testosterone
Infancy:
In male infants, testosterone levels are relatively high during the first few months of life,
particularly during the first few weeks after birth. This is sometimes referred to as "mini-
puberty."
Mini-puberty in male infants is characterized by a temporary increase in testosterone
levels, which can lead to the development of some minor male characteristics such as
slightly enlarged genitals and the growth of pubic hair. These changes typically resolve on
their own.

Childhood:
After the initial surge of testosterone in infancy, levels decrease and remain low throughout
childhood in both males and females.
During childhood, the testes are relatively inactive in boys, and testosterone production is
minimal. As a result, secondary sexual characteristics associated with puberty, such as
significant facial and body hair growth, voice deepening, and muscle development, do not
develop during this period.
 Physical
Infancy (0-2 years): Infants experience
rapid physical growth and
development during this stage. They
typically double their birth weight by
the age of 6 months and triple it by
their first birthday. Motor skills, such
as crawling, standing, and eventually
walking, gradually develop.
Early Childhood (2-6 years): Growth
continues, but at a slower rate than
during infancy. Fine and gross motor
skills develop further, allowing
children to perform more complex
tasks like drawing, writing, and riding
a bike.
Psychological
Sensorimotor Stage (0-2 years):
Infants begin to explore and
understand the world through their
senses and actions.
Preoperational Stage (2-7 years):
Children start to use symbols such as
words and images to represent
objects and ideas. Their thinking
becomes more sophisticated, but
they still struggle with logical thinking,
unable to understand the
perspectives of others.
Concrete Operational Stage (7-11
years): Children begin to think
logically about concrete events and
solve problems through trial and
error, start to understand
conservation.
Cognitive
Infancy (0-2 years): Infants begin to
explore and learn about their
environment through sensory
experiences. They develop object
permanence, the understanding
that objects continue to exist even
when they are out of sight. Early
language skills, such as babbling
and cooing, emerge.
Early Childhood (2-6 years): Early
childhood is marked by significant
cognitive development. Children's
thinking becomes more logical, and
they start to understand concepts
like cause and effect. Language
skills expand rapidly, and they
acquire a more extensive
vocabulary.
Socio-emotional
Infancy (0-2 years): Infants form
attachments to their caregivers, often
displaying separation anxiety when
apart. They learn to trust their primary
caregivers and develop a sense of
security. Emotional expressions
become more varied and recognizable.
Early Childhood (2-6 years): Children
begin to interact with peers more
frequently, developing social skills and
learning about relationships. They may
experience feelings of guilt, shame, and
jealousy. Emotional regulation
improves, but tantrums and emotional
outbursts are common.
ADOLESCENCE
STAGE
Adolescence
Puberty is the time when kids grow into young adults through physical and
emotional changes. This doesn’t happen all at once, but slowly over time. It's good
to know about the changes that come along with puberty so you know what to
expect. Most females will start puberty when they’re 8 to 13 years old, and most
males will start between 9 and 14. But it can also be normal to start earlier or later.

In males: The hormones tell the testicles to make the hormone testosterone and
sperm.

In females: The hormones tell the ovaries to make the hormone estrogen and
triggers the growth and release of eggs.
 Chemical changes in
adolescence development
HYPOTHALAMUS-PITUITARY-
GONADAL AXIS
The hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG)
axis is a complex hormonal pathway that
regulates the reproductive system. It
consists of three main components: the
hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the
gonads (testes in males and ovaries in
females).
NEUROTRANSMITTERS LIKE PREFRONTAL CORTEX
DOPAMINE, SEROTONIN, AND
The hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG)
NOREPINEPHRINE
axis is a complex hormonal pathway that
Dopamine: It plays a role in regulating movement, regulates the reproductive system. It
pleasure, motivation, and emotional responses. consists of three main components: the
hypothalamus, the pituitary glanIt is
Serotonin: Serotonin is involved in regulating mood,
sleep, appetite, and anxiety. It helps to stabilize mood
involved in a wide range of cognitive
and promote feelings of well-being and happiness. functions and is considered the center for
executive functions. emotions. It is
Norepinephrine: Norepinephrine is involved in the
responsible for integrating information from
body's stress response and regulates attention,
alertness, and arousal. It helps to mobilize the body for various brain regions to guide behavior.
action in situations of danger or stress.
Hypothalamus-
pituitary-gonadal axis

Hypothalamus:
The process begins in the hypothalamus, a region of the brain, where specialized neurons called
gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons release GnRH into the bloodstream.

Pituitary Gland:
In response to GnRH, the pituitary gland releases two important gonadotropin hormones:
luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
LH and FSH are also peptide hormones.

Gonads (Testes in Males and Ovaries in Females):

In males, LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, which is the
primary male sex hormone. FSH plays a role in spermatogenesis (the production of sperm) in
males. In females, LH and FSH play crucial roles in regulating the menstrual cycle and fertility.
Neurotransmitters like
dopamine, serotonin, and
norepinephrine
Dopamine:
Increase in dopamine production and receptor density in certain areas of the brain.
This increase in dopamine activity is thought to contribute to heightened sensitivity to rewarding
stimuli, which can lead to risk-taking behaviors and sensation-seeking tendencies in adolescents.

Serotonin:
Serotonin is a Changes in the serotonin system, including shifts in receptor sensitivity and
availability. These changes may contribute to mood swings, emotional lability, and vulnerability to
mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Norepinephrine:
Plays a role in the body's "fight or flight" response, alertness, and attention. There is an increase in
norepinephrine activity in certain brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex.
Prefrontal cortex
These chemical changes in the prefrontal cortex during adolescence contribute to
the cognitive and emotional changes observed in teenagers. Adolescents often
exhibit increased curiosity, exploration, risk-taking, and sensitivity to social and
emotional experiences. These changes are part of the normal process of brain
development and maturation, but they can also make adolescents more vulnerable
to impulsive and risky behaviors.
 Physical Psychological Cognitive Socio-emotional

Males
Usually start with the testicles getting bigger, erections
happen more often, ejaculation also happens.
Later, hair will grow under the arms and in the beard area.
And that first crack in the voice is a sign that the voice is
changing and will get deeper. Some males get some breast
growth (called gynecomastia).
Their body shape begins to change as their shoulders
broaden and they gain weight and muscle. A growth spurt
usually happens between ages 12 and 15.
During puberty, you might feel confused
or have strong emotions that you've never
had before. You may feel anxious about
how your changing body looks. It's easy
to feel embarrassed or anxious when
talking about these topics, but you need
the right information.
They can understand hypothetical
scenarios, analyze complex ideas, and
think about possibilities and
consequences. The brain's processing
speed becomes faster during
adolescence. This allows for quicker
information processing, decision-making,
and problem-solving abilities, become
more aware of their own thinking
processes.
Adolescents benefit from support and
guidance from parents, caregivers,
teachers, and other trusted adults during
this transformative period. Open and
empathetic communication is essential to
help them navigate these changes and
build a strong foundation for adulthood.

Females
The first physical change of puberty is breast development.
The breasts will get larger over the next year or two. Later,
more hair will grow in the pubic area and under the arms.

Their body shape begins to change as their hips widen and

they gain weight and body fat. Expect the first period
(menstruation), usually between the ages of 9 and 16. Most
females have a growth spurt about 1–2 years before their
period starts.
ADULTHOOD
STAGE
 Adulthood
Every human being reaches full physical and intellectual maturity during their adult
years, which is referred to as adulthood. Every human being goes through an adult
stage at which time parental authority is lost and everyone is given their own
duties. Legally speaking, the adult stage of life is when a person reaches the
major age, which means they become independent and capable of making
decisions.
 Chemical changes in
adulthood development

HORMONAL LEVELS STABILIZE, ESTROGEN AND PROGESTERONE METABOLIC CHANGES ALSO

ALTHOUGH FLUCTUATIONS CAN PRODUCTION DECLINES OCCUR DURING ADULTHOOD
STILL OCCUR
Metabolism refers to the complex set of
Network of glands that produce the hormones we
Hormones are chemicals produced by glands chemical processes that occur within the
need to regulate metabolism, sexual function,
in the endocrine system. Hormones travel body to maintain life. These processes
growth, mood and more.
through the bloodstream to the tissues and involve the conversion of food into energy,
As we move through the stages of life, our
organs, delivering messages that tell the the building and repair of tissues, and the
hormone levels fluctuate; aging means that we
organs what to do and when to do it.
produce more of some hormones and less of removal of waste products.
others
Hormones are essential for regulating most
major bodily processes, so a hormonal
imbalance can affect many bodily functions.
Hormonal levels stabilize,
although fluctuations
can still occur
Stress Hormones: Chronic stress, in particular, can disrupt the balance of these
hormones and have long-term effects on metabolism.

Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid function can fluctuate due to factors like illness, medication
changes, and aging.

Insulin: Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Insulin sensitivity can
change over time, particularly in individuals at risk for insulin resistance and type 2
diabetes.

Cortisol: Cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, can fluctuate in response to daily
and seasonal rhythms, illness, and lifestyle factors.
Estrogen and
progesterone production
declines
Estrogen Production Decline: Estrogen is a group of hormones that plays a crucial role
in the development and maintenance of female sexual characteristics, the menstrual
cycle, and bone health. During perimenopause and menopause (typically occurring in
the late 40s or early 50s), the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen.

Progesterone Production Decline: Sex hormone that plays a role in the menstrual cycle
and supports pregnancy. During perimenopause and menopause, progesterone
production by the ovaries also decreases.
Metabolic changes also
occur during adulthood

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): BMR is the amount of energy your body needs to maintain
basic functions at rest, such as breathing and maintaining body temperature.

Muscle Mass: Muscle tissue requires more energy to maintain than fat tissue. As people
age, they tend to lose muscle mass, a process known as sarcopenia.

Hormonal Changes: During adulthood, hormone levels can fluctuate and change, which
can impact metabolism. For example, menopause in women is associated with
hormonal changes that can lead to weight gain and changes in body composition.
 Physical
Although we observe that muscles continue to
expand until the middle of the 20s and that the
bulk of the skeleton continues to grow until the
age of 30, growth and cellular and neural activity
quickly begin to decline. Both males and females
could experience difficulties with their sexual
activities. Older persons may have changes in their
ability to learn, their movement, as well as vision
impairment, and other physical issues.
Psychological
Many adults become more skilled at
managing their emotions. They often
develop better coping strategies and
resilience in response to challenges.
They may question their life choices, their
goals, and their overall satisfaction.
Cognitive
There can be subtle declines in
processing speed and working memory.
However, these changes are not uniform
and can be mitigated through mental
stimulation and lifelong learning.
Socio-emotional
Parents may experience empty nest
syndrome, which can involve feelings of
sadness, loss, or renewed freedom. They
draw on their life experiences to provide
guidance and support to others.
OLD AGE STAGE
Old Age stage
Old age is considered the final stage of the human life cycle.
It typically begins around the age of 65 and lasts until death.
Some may experience better health and vitality while others
may struggle with more pronounced effects of aging. Factors
such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and access to healthcare
can also significantly impact the quality of life in old age.
 This decline is a natural part of the aging process. It's important to
Hormone production note that hormone production varies depending on the specific
decrease hormone and the individual.

Hormone production
decrease
Estrogen (in Women): Estrogen is a key female sex hormone, and its production
decreases significantly during menopause, typically occurring in the late 40s or
early 50s.

Growth Hormone (GH): GH production decreases with age, contributing to reduced

muscle mass, bone density, and skin elasticity.

Insulin Sensitivity: Insulin sensitivity can decrease with age, increasing the risk of
insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone): DHEA is a hormone produced by the adrenal

glands, and its levels tend to decline with age, can affect mood, energy levels, and
overall well-being.
 Physical
Vision, hearing, taste, and smell may
diminish, impacting daily activities and
communication.
Changes in mobility: Muscle strength
and flexibility decrease, leading to
difficulties overall mobility.
Increased vulnerability to illness: The
immune system weakens, making
older adults more susceptible to
infections and diseases.
Psychological
Mental health concerns: Older adults
may experience increased rates of
depression, anxiety, loneliness, and
feelings of isolation.
Emotional stability: Leading to
increased emotional stability and
better coping strategies.
Changes in motivation and goal
orientation: Intrinsic motivation may
become more prominent as
individuals age.
Cognitive
Slower information processing: It
may take longer for older adults to
process and respond to
information.
Memory decline: Memory can
experience changes, with
occasional forgetfulness,
particularly related to names,
dates, or details.
Wisdom and experience: Older
adults may exhibit increased
wisdom and real-world experience,
leading to better decision-making
abilities based on past
experiences.
Socio-emotional
Changes in Increased desire for social
interaction: While some older adults
may feel isolated, others become more
motivated for social engagement,
seeking meaningful relationships and
participation in activities.
Maintaining autonomy and
independence: Older adults often strive
for independence, seeking to live in
their own homes and make decisions
about their own lives.
Reflection and growth: Aging often
leads to increased self-reflection and a
focus on personal growth.
Changes in the human
being
Childhood: During this stage, parenting and the environment have a significant impact on the
child's development, they can have a positive effect on the child's physical and cognitive
development.

Adolescence: Hormonal changes lead to puberty and sexual maturation. This can lead to a
series of emotional and social changes.

Adulthood: People tend to have more established family and professional responsibilities.
They may experience physical changes and face challenges.

Old age: People may experience changes in their health and memory. However, they may
also enjoy greater wisdom, experience, and free time for leisure activities.
Conclusion
During the different stages of the human being, various
changes occur, which help in our growth throughout our lives.
This development is one more step for the next stage and
personal growth since everything that will happen will have an
important role in our future. At each stage we experience
many changes and each of them is necessary for us to
continue living, each person experiences it differently and not
all of us go through the same circumstances.
 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5642081/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK500006/
https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/testosterone/
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/puberty.html#:~:text=Hormones%20
from%20the%20brain%20trigger,growth%20and%20release%20of%
20eggs.

Links
https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/adulthood/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321486#causes
https://www.rush.edu/news/hormones-you-
age#:~:text=Around%20age%2050%2C%20women's%20ovaries,folli
cle%20stimulating%20hormone%20(FSH).
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-
health#:~:text=Common%20conditions%20in%20older%20age,condit
ions%20at%20the%20same%20time.
 10mo B

THANKS
Raphaella Flores