From Notch signaling to fine-grained patterning: Modeling meets experiments

Notch signaling is the canonical signaling pathway between neighboring cells. It plays an important role in fine-grained patterning processes such as the formation of checkerboard-like differentiation patterns and sharp boundaries between developing tissues. While detailed information about many of the genes and proteins involved have been identified, we still lack a quantitative mechanistic understanding of these processes. Here we discuss several recent studies that provide novel insights into Notch-dependent patterning by combining mathematical models with quantitative experimental results. Such approaches allow identification of mechanisms and design principles controlling how patterns are generated in a reproducible and robust manner.