How Genes and Physics Collaborate to Shape Living Organisms
When we think about how living things grow, we often imagine genes as the sole architects of life’s blueprint. But recent scientific discoveries reveal a fascinating partnership: genes don’t work alone—they harness the power of physics to shape organisms.
One surprising example comes from a phenomenon known as the Marangoni effect, first described in the 19th century to explain the “tears” that form on the surface of a glass of wine. Scientists now see this same physical principle at work during embryonic development. In lab-grown mouse gastruloids—clusters of stem cells that mimic early embryos—differences in surface tension create flows that stretch and elongate the developing tissue, helping establish the body’s head-to-tail axis.
This insight is part of a broader shift in the field of developmental biology. Mechanical forces, such as tissue tension and cell stretching, are just as important as genes in guiding growth. For example, the formation of bird feathers depends on morphogens that influence tissue mechanics, allowing physical forces to pattern the feather follicles. Similarly, proteins like actin help cells respond elastically during development.
These findings echo the ideas of early biologist D’Arcy Thompson, who argued that physical laws shape biological forms. Thanks to modern imaging and modelling, we’re now seeing how genes and physics work hand in hand to create the complex, beautiful structures of life.
Stay tuned as science continues to unravel the incredible mechanics behind growth and development!
