Co-Authors:
Presnov, E.
Isaeva, V., A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Science, Moscow 119071, Russian Federation, A.V. Zhirmunsky Institute of Marine Biology, Far East Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok 690041, Russian Federation
Kasyanov, N., Institute of Theory of Architecture and Town Planning, Moscow, Russian Federation
Abstract:
This paper presents a topological interpretation of some developmental events through the use of well-known concepts and theorems of combinatorial geometry. The organization of early embryo using a simulation of cleavage considering only blastomere contacts is examined. Each blastomere is modeled as a topological cell and whole embryo-as cell packing. The egg cleavage results in a pattern of cellular contacts on the surface of each blastomere and whole embryo, a discrete morphogenetic field. We find topological distinctions between different types of early egg cleavage and suggest a topological classification of cleavage. Blastulation and gastrulation may be related to an inevitable emergence of discrete curvature that directs development in three-dimensional space. The relationship between local and global orders in metazoan development, i.e., between local morphogenetic processes and integral developmental patterns, is established. Thus, this methodology reveals a topological imperative: a certain set of topological rules that constrains and directs biological morphogenesis. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.