How does a leopard get its spots?

How do we get from genotype to phenotype?

Genotype -

Phenotype -

Cell Differentiation

When cells in different places behave differently.

How can genes cause cell differentiation?

Rules for the game

- no moving- no using your location- no talking- you may pass cards (proteins)- you may stand up or sit down (black or yellow

cell color)- one student starts with all the proteins

GOAL: make a leopard spot.

A simple rule for cell differentiation

1. One cell starts with many proteins2. Each cell passes the proteins it has to its

neighbors at random.3. Cells start as black4. After a set periods of time, cells with enough

proteins turn yellow.

What does this look like?

Morphogen

A chemical (such as a protein) used as a message during cell differentiation.

How can a computer help us?

Requirements for complex patterns

- Two morphogens- The morphogens can interact.

Patterns from two morphogens

Patterns from two morphogens

Patterns from two morphogens

Patterns from two morphogens