Pattern Formation in Tissue Interaction Models

Embryogenesis depends on a series of processes which generate specific patterns at each stage of development. For example, gastrulation, chondrogenesis, formation of scale, feather and hair primordia all involve major symmetry breaking. These ubiquitous spatial pattern formation requirements depend on specific pattern generation mechanisms which are still unknown. They are the subject of much research both theoretical and experimental. In the case of integumental patterns, for example, we do not in general even know when in development the pattern is actually formed. This was the key question studied by Murray et al. (1990) in a recent theoretical and experimental paper on alligator (Alligator missippiensis) stripes.