Stochasticity and determinism in cell fate decisions.

Development
Christoph ZechnerCaren Norden

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.

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Citations

Apr 7, 2021·Journal of Plant Research·Miho S Kitazawa
Jun 18, 2021·Cell Systems·Nika ShakibaDomitilla Del Vecchio
Jul 7, 2021·Annual Review of Microbiology·Vanessa LuzakLuisa M Figueiredo

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