Stochasticity and determinism in cell fate decisions

Author:

Zechner Christoph123ORCID,Nerli Elisa1ORCID,Norden Caren14ORCID

Affiliation:

1. Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany

2. Max Planck Center for Systems Biology, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany

3. Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life, TU Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany

4. Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal

Abstract

ABSTRACT During development, cells need to make decisions about their fate in order to ensure that the correct numbers and types of cells are established at the correct time and place in the embryo. Such cell fate decisions are often classified as deterministic or stochastic. However, although these terms are clearly defined in a mathematical sense, they are sometimes used ambiguously in biological contexts. Here, we provide some suggestions on how to clarify the definitions and usage of the terms stochastic and deterministic in biological experiments. We discuss the frameworks within which such clear definitions make sense and highlight when certain ambiguity prevails. As an example, we examine how these terms are used in studies of neuronal cell fate decisions and point out areas in which definitions and interpretations have changed and matured over time. We hope that this Review will provide some clarification and inspire discussion on the use of terminology in relation to fate decisions.

Funder

Max-Planck-Gesellschaft

Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian

Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft

European Research Council

Publisher

The Company of Biologists

Subject

Developmental Biology,Molecular Biology

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