Title
Simulating cortical development as a self constructing process: a novel multi-scale approach combining molecular and physical aspects.
Abstract
Current models of embryological development focus on intracellular processes such as gene expression and protein networks, rather than on the complex relationship between subcellular processes and the collective cellular organization these processes support. We have explored this collective behavior in the context of neocortical development, by modeling the expansion of a small number of progenitor cells into a laminated cortex with layer and cell type specific projections. The developmental process is steered by a formal language analogous to genomic instructions, and takes place in a physically realistic three-dimensional environment. A common genome inserted into individual cells control their individual behaviors, and thereby gives rise to collective developmental sequences in a biologically plausible manner. The simulation begins with a single progenitor cell containing the artificial genome. This progenitor then gives rise through a lineage of offspring to distinct populations of neuronal precursors that migrate to form the cortical laminae. The precursors differentiate by extending dendrites and axons, which reproduce the experimentally determined branching patterns of a number of different neuronal cell types observed in the cat visual cortex. This result is the first comprehensive demonstration of the principles of self-construction whereby the cortical architecture develops. In addition, our model makes several testable predictions concerning cell migration and branching mechanisms.
Year
DOI
Venue
2013
10.1371/journal.pcbi.1003173
PLOS COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY
Keywords
Field
DocType
gene regulatory networks,computational biology,neurogenesis,computer simulation
Neurogenesis,Collective behavior,Neuroscience,Visual cortex,Progenitor,Biology,Cell migration,Cell type,Gene regulatory network,Genetics,Progenitor cell
Journal
Volume
Issue
ISSN
9
8
1553-7358
Citations 
PageRank 
References 
7
0.53
15
Authors
7
Name
Order
Citations
PageRank
Frederic Zubler1424.12
Andreas Hauri270.53
Sabina Pfister3131.78
Roman Bauer4153.53
John C Anderson570.53
Adrian M. Whatley614211.84
Rodney J. Douglas7593242.90