This book gives a current overview on the development, origin, structure, and functions of germline and somatic cell syncytia during embryogenesis and organogenesis. It also reviews pathogen-induced syncytia and the role of syncytial cells in cancer development.

The book covers the following topics:

• germline syncytia, evolution, function and structure;


• syncytia in embryogenesis and development;


• the role of somatic cell fusion in fungi, specialized somatic tissues, host defense and adaptation;


• syncytia induced by viruses and parasites;


• syncytia and circulating hybrid cells in cancer and other pathological conditions;

It also discusses how the genomic adaptations of microorganisms to extreme habitats can prompt the evolution of mononuclear and multinucleate/syncytial cells.

The book offers a fresh outlook on syncytia's role in various processes: embryogenesis, organogenesis, adaptation, host defense, and development of specialized tissues. It highlights the importance of syncytia under physiological and pathological conditions.