Introduction: Toward the Theoretical Biology of Vascular Morphogenesis

摘要: Since its publication in 1917, On Growth and Form, the classical work of Scottish zoologist D’Arcy Thompson, has attracted investigators from different fields with backgrounds to study biological form mathematical terms. The five chapters Part III our book are devoted modeling computer simulation vascular morphogenesis. It clearly demonstrates that morphogenesis is becoming mature field established broad spectrum hypotheses, theories, assumptions, postulates, experimental data which suitable for analysis as well simulation. From another point view, these indicate emergence a new we propose call mente (from Latin word mente—a mind). We think this term will fit better than other proposed terms (in numero, computero) logic existing classification research based on topological principles (where was experiment performed? vivo, vitro, mente). models may be classified into at least four basic groups: (a) chemical gradients activators inhibitors angiogenesis (Meinhardt, 1976; Meakin, 1986); (b) exploiting mechanical factors involved (Waxman et al., 1981, Manoussaki 1996); (c) analyzing cellular behavior (Stokes Lauffenburger, 1991; Byrne Chaplain, 1995); (d) fractality networks (Bassingthwaite al, 1994; Kiani Hudetz, Pries 1995; Sandau Kurz, 1995). Collectively, book, approaches give whole impressive picture recent trends