Balancing reaction-diffusion network for cell polarization pattern with stability and asymmetry

• DOI: 10.7554/elife.96421.1
• Publication Date: 2024-06-21T17:42:41Z
• Authors: Yixuan Chen; Guoye Guan; Lei-Han Tang; Chao Tang
• Keywords: Reaction–diffusion system

Cell polarization is a critical process that separates molecules into two distinct regions in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, guiding biological processes such as cell division differentiation. Although several underlying antagonistic reaction-diffusion networks capable of setting up have been identified experimentally theoretically, our understanding how to manipulate pattern stability asymmetry remains incomplete, especially when only subset network components are known. Here we present numerical results show the polarized an 2-node collapses homogeneous state subjected single-sided self-regulation, additional regulation, or unequal system parameters. However, polarity can be restored through combination modifications opposing effects. Additionally, spatially inhomogeneous parameters favoring respective domains stabilize their interface at designated locations. To connect findings studies nematode Caenorhabditis elegans zygote, reconstituted 5-node where 4-node circuit with full mutual inhibitions between anterior posterior modified by activation inhibition posterior. Once again, generic set kinetic moves towards either end, yet stabilized spatial tuning one more coupled intracellular extracellular cues. A user-friendly software, PolarSim , introduced facilitate exploration alternative node numbers, parameter values, regulatory pathways.