Turing’s Theory of Morphogenesis: Where We Started, Where We Are and Where We Want to Go

Abstract

Over 60 years have passed since Alan Turing first postulated a mechanism for biological pattern formation. Although Turing did not have the chance to extend his theories before his unfortunate death two years later, his work has not gone unnoticed. Indeed, many researchers have since taken up the gauntlet and extended his revolutionary and counter-intuitive ideas. Here, we reproduce the basics of his theory as well as review some of the recent generalisations and applications that have led our mathematical models to be closer representations of the biology than ever before. Finally, we take a look to the future and discuss open questions that not only show that there is still much life in the theory, but also that the best may be yet to come.