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Understanding Multicellularity: The Functional Organization of the Intercellular Space
Leonardo Bich1, Thomas Pradeu2,3, Jean-François Moreau2,4
1Department of Logic and Philosophy of Science, IAS-Research Centre for Life, Mind and Society, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain.
Frontiers in Physiology
|October 18, 2019
Summary
This study introduces a new theoretical framework for multicellularity, emphasizing the critical role of intercellular space organization. It highlights how the extracellular matrix actively shapes multicellular systems and influences functions like aging and cancer.
Area of Science:
- * Theoretical Biology
- * Systems Biology
- * Physiology
Background:
- * Biological systems are characterized by self-production and self-maintenance through metabolic networks and environmental exchange.
- * Organismic approaches explain functional integration in biological systems, but multicellularity presents unique challenges.
- * Current multicellularity models often overlook the physical and functional integration of cells within a coherent system, focusing instead on cell differentiation and size increase.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To provide a theoretical framework for understanding how multicellular systems achieve functional integration through intercellular space organization.
- * To propose that the functional organization of the intercellular space is a fundamental, yet underdeveloped, principle in current multicellularity theories.
- * To explore the role of the extracellular matrix as a key non-cellular component in regulating multicellular organization and function.
Main Methods:
- * Theoretical analysis of organismic frameworks and multicellularity.
- * Development of a novel theoretical model focusing on intercellular space organization.
- * Examination of the role of the extracellular matrix and spatial organization in multicellular functions and dysfunctions.
Main Results:
- * The functional organization of intercellular space is proposed as a crucial missing principle for understanding multicellularity.
- * Spatial organization enables and exploits cell differentiation, size increase, and specialized functions like immunity.
- * The extracellular matrix acts as an ancient, specific control subsystem modulating cell fate and behavior within the multicellular space.
Conclusions:
- * The organization of intercellular space is fundamental to the integration and function of multicellular organisms.
- * The extracellular matrix plays an active, crucial role in specifying the multicellular space and controlling cell behavior.
- * Failures in spatial organization are implicated in multicellular dysfunctions such as aging and cancer.
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