Cellular Automata in Biology

Cellular automata in biology are mathematical models that simulate how simple, local interactions among cells or molecules can lead to complex, organized patterns over time. Think of them as grids where each cell updates its state based on neighboring cells’ states, mimicking biological processes like tissue development, pattern formation, or neural activity. These models help scientists understand how simple rules at the cellular level can produce the intricate structures and behaviors observed in living organisms, offering insights into developmental biology and biological patterning without needing to observe every detail directly.