Mathematical Models for Developmental Changes

Abstract

Developmental changes are generally reflected in gradual increase in size or number, or both. These morphological changes will be accompanied by physiological changes. In a first-order approximation one may state that the rate of change at any time is proportional to the value of the parameter in question, which leads to exponential changes. More complex models have been devised for so-called growth processes. A number of these models are reviewed here and their application to developmental changes is discussed.