Scientists have created a computer model reproducing variation in complex structures like teeth and organs.
And the team believes their research takes a step towards the growing of correctly shaped teeth and other organs.
Professor Jukka Jernvall, and his research team at the Institute of Biotechnology of the University of Helsinki, investigated the evolutionary development of mammal teeth and, after more than 15 years of work, have compiled so much data that ‘the main aspects of a formula for making teeth are beginning to be clear'.
According to a mathematical computer model, a rather simple basic formula seems to be behind the complex gene puzzle resulting in tooth formations; the jungle of gene networks has a 'patterning kernel' regulating the variation of teeth among individuals in the same population.
Also the variation of human teeth from the incisors to the molar teeth may result from a single factor regulating cell division.
The researchers tested their theoretical model, which is based on mouse tooth development, by investigating seal teeth.
The Ladoga ringed seal collection of the Finnish Museum of Natural History at the University of Helsinki provided an ideal population sample for the research because dentitions are highly variable.
The team leader explains: ‘Seal teeth were particularly suitable research material, since they vary significantly by individual.'
The mathematical model proposed by the research team may give new kind of understanding on the formation of organisms' 3D shapes.
Professor Jernvall is known as an international pioneer in cross-disciplinary evolutionary development biology. He conducted the research, published last week, in co-operation with Isaac Salazar-Ciudad.
