Download of "Models of Biological pattern formation"

Download in a single pdf-file (4.8 MB)

The book appeared in 1982 with Academic Press, London. Since it was definitely written before the molecular tools became available, the mechanisms proposed on the basis of modelling where clear predictions. Several mechanism central in biological pattern formation have been meanwhile confirmed. Among these are:

> The compartment borders and especially their intersections are the organizing region for legs and wings in insects (Chapter 9)
> Boundaries also play a crucial role in the patterning of vertebrate limbs (Chapter 10)
> Gene activation requires a positive autoregulatory feedback of a gene product on the activation of its own gene (Chapter 11)
> Segmentation requires the mutual activation of feedback loops that locally exclude each other (Chapter 13)
> Somite formation occurs by a sequential conversion of a periodic pattern in time into a periodic pattern in space (Chapter 14)
> Long extendet filamentous structures are formed as traces behind moving signals (chapter 15).

Using the original files, the book has been re-formatted by using PDF-LATEX. Therefore, the page numbers are not identical with that of the original print.
If large files are a problem, the download can be accomplished in several portions:

Preface, table of content and chapters 1- 6 (1.4 MB)

Pattern formation by autocatalysis and long range inhibition; different molecular realization; size regulation, oscillating patterns; applications to Hydra,

Chapters 7-10 (0.8 MB)

Gradients, pattern formation in insects (other than Drosophila), generation of coordinate systems for insect and vertebrate appendages

Chapters 11-13 (0.9 MB):

Molecular switches by feedback of genes on their own activation; activation of several genes under the influence of a morphogen gradient;
Mutual activation of cell states; generation of sequences of structures; intercalary regeneration

Chapter 14 (0.4 MB):

Digits, segments somites: The superposition of sequential and periodic structures
The conversion of a periodic pattern in time into a periodic/sequential pattern in space

Chapter 15 (0.8 MB):

Formation of net-like structures, e.g. leaf venation

Chapter 17 (0.8 MB):

Computer programs and references

(For a table of content, click here)

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