Computer modeling in developmental biology: growing today, essential tomorrow

Area of Science:

• Developmental Biology
• Computational Modeling
• Morphogenesis

Background:

• D'Arcy Thompson's pioneering work over 100 years ago applied mathematical concepts to morphogenesis.
• The centenary of Thompson's book, 'On Growth and Form,' provides an opportunity to review modern approaches.
• Understanding organism and organ development remains a key challenge in biology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current computer modeling projects in developmental biology.
• To examine how different modeling approaches contribute to the scientific process.
• To discuss the future trajectory of computational modeling in developmental biology.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent computer modeling projects in developmental biology.
• Categorization of models based on their contribution to the scientific process, rather than scientific question or scale.
• Analysis of diverse modeling concepts, including molecular patterning and tissue morphogenesis.

Main Results:

• A wide range of modeling projects are actively being pursued in developmental biology.
• Modeling efforts span from molecular-level patterning to macroscopic tissue morphogenesis.
• Different modeling strategies offer unique insights into developmental processes.

Conclusions:

• Computer modeling is a vital tool for understanding biological development.
• The field is rapidly advancing, integrating diverse computational approaches.
• Future research will likely see increased sophistication and application of modeling in developmental biology.