Biological Pattern Formation

Biological pattern formation refers to the processes that create organized structures and shapes in living organisms, such as the spots on a leopard or the arrangement of leaves on a stem. This occurs through interactions of cells, chemicals, and genetic instructions that guide cells to differentiate and position themselves in specific ways. Reaction-diffusion systems, for example, involve chemicals spreading and reacting to produce stable patterns. These mechanisms ensure proper development, allowing organisms to form complex, functional structures in a coordinated manner.