A Theory of the Control of Differentiation in the Cellular Slime Molds

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Abstract
A basic problem in the study of the development of slime molds is an explanation of their proportional development. Certain specific chemical differences exist between the anterior, pre-stalk end and the posterior, pre-spore end and these presumptive areas are proportionate in cell masses of different size. Apparently, a cell in the anterior end "knows" how many cells lie posteriorly as the anterior cells accomodate proportionately when cells in the posterior portion are removed. The theory assumes that information is carried by a polar movement and suggests that certain fast cells are constantly arriving at the tip and that a reduction of the posterior portion is accompanied by a corresponding reduction of these message cells. According to this hypothesis, random variability in a cell mass has ultimately produced a discontinuous, proportionate cell difference that has all the qualities of a controlled pattern of differentiation.