We are using mathematical general systems theory to generalize state space representation from conventional general systems theory. The latter are frequently used to represent intracellular mechanisms. Through a generic, yet adequate level of abstraction, we arrive at a more general representation of a tissue. A first result from this work is that we found evidence for the autonomy of cells within a tissue (Figure below; open to enlarge). There is reciprocal determination between the stem cells in the intestinal niche and the tissue as a whole. This allows us to distinguish emergence (progressive determination) of the tissue and coordination of cellular function (regressive determination) within a single formal framework.

While mathematical modelling is well established in supporting research into cellular mechanism, there does not exist a formal framework to support the formulation of hypotheses about principles of tissue organization. Akin to rate equations supporting the formulation of hypotheses about cellular mechanisms, we are developing a conceptual framework to identify principles of tissue organization. Our project contributes to a better understanding of whole-part relationships in the context of disease focused research of tissue organisation.