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Silkweaverfollowshare
6-22-2008 12:08 PM
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Silkweaver says:
Previous work identified a specific signal necessary for getting these fly egg cells to move; the problem is that this signal is “graded.” Like drops of ink spreading out on wet paper, this signal travels in between surrounding cells, gradually fading away as it moves outwards. But clear lines are required for pattern formation — there is no grey area between a zebra’s black and white stripes, between heart and liver cells and, in this case, between migrating cells and those that stay put.

How are graded signals converted to a clear move or stay signal? By examining flies containing mutations in different genes, the researchers discovered that one gene in particular, called apontic, is important for converting a graded signal.
2 Comments   | Add a Comment
6-22-2008 12:11 PM
Silkweaver
This is one of the most fascinating riddles of life. How an organized pattern emerges from its abstract coding in the DNA to actual functional form.
6-24-2008 3:51 AM
pokkets
"How does pattern emerge out of no pattern?"

We wonder about nature, yet have no doubt we can create artificial intelligence, using the same tools nature has been using since the dawn of time. What we've done with binary is amazing. DNA has four bases.
Start simple and progressively adapt to available sources of energy.
For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
Nature is an absolute pragmatist. Using fibonacci numbers, fractals, golden rectangles, protein folds, chemical and atomic valencies and frequencies and variations keep rising, that are to us apparently random, yet consistent with mathematical, chemical, and physical properties and principles. There is also the pos...
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