The science of pattern formation deals with the visible, (statistically) orderly outcomes of self-organization and the common principles behind similar patterns in nature.
In developmental biology, pattern formation refers to the generation of complex organizations of cell fates in space and time. Pattern formation is controlled by genes. The role of genes in pattern formation is well seen in the anterior-posterior patterning of embryos from the model organism Drosophila melanogaster (a fruit fly).
Famous quotes containing the words pattern and/or formation:
“No, I will be the pattern of all patience,
I will say nothing.”
—William Shakespeare (1564–1616)
“I want you to consider this distinction as you go forward in life. Being male is not enough; being a man is a right to be earned and an honor to be cherished. I cannot tell you how to earn that right or deserve that honor. . . but I can tell you that the formation of your manhood must be a conscious act governed by the highest vision of the man you want to be.”
—Kent Nerburn (20th century)