Genetic programming of development: a model.

Genetic programming of the developmental processes in multicellular organisms is proposed to be so intricate and vitally important that a large set of genes is dedicated solely to this end. It is further proposed that this set can be compartmentalized into subsets on the basis of the changes in gene activities that occur during ontogenesis, and that the genes in each subset transiently control the epigenetic activities of a small group of cells. Automatic subset activation is achieved by the product of a gene in each subset that transfers activity specifically to the subset next in the developmental sequence. This device can generate a unidirectional series of activations that cascade hierarchically through development like toppling dominoes. The model provides a basis for developmental phenomena, such as pattern formation, morphogenesis, and regeneration, and it makes testable predictions at the molecular level.