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REVIEW:
What is the intellectual merit of the proposed activity?
In this CDI proposal, Drs Rose and Mian propose a transformative approach to understanding cellular communication in tissues or cellular aggregates. Although a wide range of studies have been performed to obtain an understanding on single cell behavior, studies on multicellular systems are not common. The PIs propose using a communications theory approach to cell-cell communication. The questions that they pose and intend to shed light upon have the potential to significantly transform multiple areas in biology such as tissue engineering, tissue morphogenesis, and developmental biology. The goals outlined in this proposal are ambitious, and, if successfully realized will transform conventional wisdom on cell talk. For instance, the PIs plan to study the rate at which information is obtained by a cell, what is the minimal flow of information needed for a cell or groups of cells to make informed decisions, the signal to noise ratio tolerated by cells and whether cells release signaling molecules in an anisotropic pattern.
Some concerns are the lack of specifics in the proposed studies. Drs Rose and Mian will conduct theoretical studies during the timeframe of this proposal, however, very little detail has been provided on the actual model, boundary conditions and how they will assess the effect of various inputs in their models.
The addition of a cell biologist as a collaborator would enable the PIs to assess the validity and biological significance of their results.
What are the broader impacts of the proposed activity?
If successful, the theoretical insights gained will open up entirely new perspectives (and experiments) on cellular communication. It could lead to a comprehensive understanding on developmental biology and shed light on stem cell differentiation. The education plan of the proposal is good with interdisciplinary courses and collaborations between Rutgers and LBNL.
Summary Statement
The intellectual content in this proposal is excellent. The successful realization of even some of the goals presented will dramatically change the way biologists envision communication in cell aggregates. For this reason, this proposal is ideally suited for consideration under the auspices of the CDI program. Minor concerns are lack of specifics on their theoretical studies and the absence of a biological collaborator.
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