1998/06/09 by Ronen Segev, Eshel Ben-Jacob
Physics and Astronomy · Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · #cond-mat #q-bio
published as J. Comp. Sys. 1 (1998) · Latex, 12 pages, 9 gif figures
arxiv created 1998/06/09 · arxiv updated 2009/11/30
During embryonic morpho-genesis, a collection of individual neurons turns into a functioning network with unique capabilities. Only recently has this most staggering example of emergent process in the natural world, began to be studied. Here we propose a navigational strategy for neurites growth cones, based on sophisticated chemical signaling. We further propose that the embryonic environment (the neurons and the glia cells) acts as an excitable media in which concentric and spiral chemical waves are formed. Together with the navigation strategy, the chemical waves provide a mechanism for communication, regulation, and control required for the adaptive self-wiring of neurons.