Friday, February 25, 2011
   
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Computer models of plant tissue growth and morphogenesis

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Cells within a plant meristem form a complex system, and clearly possess self-organising properties. However, there are few methods available for modelling the physical relationships and information exchange between these cells in a biologically relevant way. We have developed new software tools for dynamically modelling cellular morphogenesis in plants. The physical properties of cells have been modelled in 2D, using double springs to describe wall properties. This physical model provides an engine for the production of cells through enlargement and division. The CellModeller program provides an environment for combining physical and genetic descriptions of multicellular growth. Fields of proliferating cells can be programmed via a genetic script to produce and respond to different morphogens. (Haseloff Lab)