Congenital cardiovascular malformations are the single most common form of birth defect. Therefore a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in both normal cardiac development and the formation of cardiovascular structural defects is of tremendous importance. This book brings together the leading scientists from around the world who are actively engaged in studies of the etiology, morphogenesis and physiology of congenital cardiovascular diseases. A broad variety of approaches, techniques, experimental models and studies of human genetics combine to make this a truly outstanding and unique treatise on this pressing topic. Cardiovascular Development and Congenital Malformations is divided into distinct categories, each focusing on a particular aspect of cardiovascular development. Sections are accompanied by editorial overviews which integrate new findings and place the information into a broader context.