Pattern Formation in Biological Systems: Integumentary Structures and Morphogenesis
January 2013
in “
Elsevier eBooks
”
TLDR The conclusion is that understanding how patterns form in biology is crucial for advancing research and medical science.
The document from 2013 explores the principles of pattern formation in biological systems, particularly in integumentary structures such as feathers and hair. It describes the complexity of patterns in vertebrates, which are formed through a combination of physical-chemical rules and genetic information, exemplified by the Turing reaction-diffusion mechanism in feather development. The article also discusses the temporal patterns of hair follicles, influenced by hormones and environmental factors, and the significance of these patterns in tissue regeneration, engineering, and medical applications. It highlights the importance of pattern formation in biological communication and speciation, with examples like cephalopod camouflage and bird plumage, emphasizing the necessity of understanding morphogenesis for advancing biological research and medical science.