Dynamic intercellular transport modulates the spatial patterning of differentiation during early neural commitment

• DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06693-1
• Publication Date: 2018-10-01T14:16:36Z
• Authors: Chad M. Glen; Todd C. McDevitt; Melissa L. Kemp
• Keywords: Multicellular organism

The initiation of heterogeneity within a population phenotypically identical progenitors is critical event for the onset morphogenesis and differentiation patterning. Gap junction communication multicellular systems produces complex networks intercellular connectivity that result in heterogeneous distributions intracellular signaling molecules. In this study, we investigate emergent systems-level behavior network embryonic stem cell (ESC) populations corresponding spatial organization during early neural differentiation. An agent-based model incorporates experimentally-determined parameters to yield transport delivery pro-differentiation cues between neighboring cells, reproducing morphogenic trajectories retinoic acid-accelerated mouse ESC Furthermore, correctly predicts delayed preserved features trajectory occurs response perturbation. These findings suggest an integral role gap temporal coordination patterning commitment pluripotent cells.