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Updated: Mar 12, 2026
08:19
Asymmetric Walkway: A Novel Behavioral Assay for Studying Asymmetric Locomotion
Published on: January 15, 2016
9.4K
Introduction to provocative questions in left-right asymmetry.
Michael Levin1, Amar J S Klar2, Ann F Ramsdell3
1Biology Department, Allen Discovery Center at Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, USA michael.levin@tufts.edu.
Summary
Left-right asymmetry is a fundamental biological process across diverse organisms. New research reveals varied mechanisms, including ancient chirality, impacting development and evolution.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Left-right asymmetry is a widespread morphological feature in organisms, from single cells to complex vertebrates.
- It spans multiple biological levels, including cellular, physiological, genetic, anatomical, and evolutionary components.
Discussion:
- Research explores asymmetry mechanisms across diverse model systems, from unicellular organisms to human developmental disorders.
- Ancient chirality elements may provide a universal basis for asymmetry development.
- Asymmetric cell division is key to binary cell-fate choices and axis determination.
Key Insights:
- Unveils a wide variety of asymmetry mechanisms previously unrecognized.
- Highlights the coordination of cytoskeleton and DNA asymmetry with embryonic axis determination.
- Emphasizes the role of asymmetric cell division in cell-fate determination.
Outlook:
- Implications for biomedical, developmental, evolutionary, and synthetic biology.
- Potential for a universal understanding of asymmetry development.
- Further research into single-cell asymmetry mechanisms and their amplification.
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