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arXiv · 2306.09534

The Core & Periphery Hypothesis: A Conceptual Basis for Generality in Cell and Developmental Biology

Elisa Gallo·Stefano De Renzis·James Sharpe·Roberto Mayor·Jonas Hartmann
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Abstract

The discovery of general principles underlying the complexity and diversity of cellular and developmental systems is a central and long-standing aim of biology. Whilst new technologies collect data at an ever-accelerating rate, there is growing concern that conceptual progress is not keeping pace. We contend that this is due to a paucity of appropriate conceptual frameworks to serve as a basis for general theories of mesoscale biological phenomena. In exploring this issue, we have developed a foundation for one such framework, termed the Core and Periphery (C&P) hypothesis, which reveals hidden generality across the diverse and complex behaviors exhibited by cells and tissues. Here, we present the C&P concept, provide examples of its applicability across multiple scales, argue its consistency with evolution, and discuss key implications and open questions. We propose that the C&P hypothesis could unlock new avenues of conceptual progress in cell and developmental biology.

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Elisa Gallo, Stefano De Renzis, James Sharpe, Roberto Mayor, Jonas Hartmann. 2023-06-15. The Core & Periphery Hypothesis: A Conceptual Basis for Generality in Cell and Developmental Biology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cels.2024.08.001

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