Lineage priming and cell type proportioning depends on the interplay between stochastic and deterministic factors.
Salvidge W; Brimson C; Gruenheit N; Huang LY; Pears C; Wolf J; Thompson C
Researchers found that cells, like those in the social amoeba, can choose different paths or fates even in the same environment. The study shows that where a cell is in its life cycle and random differences between cells help decide their future. This process might help them be stronger against changes in their environment.