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The spatial pattern of aggregation centres in the cellular slime mould
Journal of Embryology and Experimental Morphology
|August 1, 1982
Summary
Slime mould (Dictyostelium discoideum) aggregation patterns are non-randomly spaced. A new model explains how cell density influences aggregate size through competition, suggesting evolved control mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Cellular biology
- Developmental biology
- Mathematical modeling
Background:
- Slime mould (Dictyostelium discoideum) aggregation centers form non-random spatial patterns.
- Aggregate size regulation is dependent on cell density in undisturbed cultures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a model explaining non-random spacing and cell-density-dependent regulation of slime mould aggregation.
- To investigate the mechanisms underlying aggregate size control.
Main Methods:
- Nearest-neighbor distribution analysis of aggregation centers.
- Development of a computational model incorporating distance-dependent competition.
- Comparison of experimental data with model predictions.
Main Results:
- Both undisturbed and dissociated cultures exhibit non-random aggregate spacing, with dissociated cultures showing closer spacing.
- A model based on distance-dependent competition accurately predicts observed patterns and cell-density-dependent regulation.
- Dissociated cultures form smaller aggregates due to an increased fraction of cells initiating centers.
Conclusions:
- Distance-dependent competition is a key mechanism controlling slime mould aggregate size, particularly at high cell densities.
- An increased fraction of cells capable of initiating aggregation in dissociated cultures explains smaller aggregate sizes.
- This capacity may play a role in ensuring aggregation at low cell densities and in later developmental stages.