Growth across scales: Dynamic signaling impacts tissue size and shape

Abstract

Organ and tissue growth result from an integration of biophysical communication across biological scales, both in time and space. In this review, we highlight new insight into the dynamic connections between control mechanisms operating at different length scales. First, we consider how the dynamics of chemical and electrical signaling in the shape of gradients or waves affect spatiotemporal signal interpretation. Then, we discuss the mechanics underlying dynamic cell behavior during oriented tissue growth, followed by the connections between signaling at the tissue and organismal levels.

Keywords: Bioelectricity; Cell proliferation; Growth control; Hormones; Mechanics; Morphogenesis; Morphogens; Organ size.