Fig. 2: Building the HDCA.
a, ‘How to build an atlas’ modules, including an interdisciplinary team (biological disciplines, clinical specialities, computational scientists and technology engineers), multimodal technologies and integration of data across platforms. b, Key features of the HDCA. Single-cell measurements across three-dimensional space (alongside a fourth dimension of time) allow for the capture of dynamic developmental processes, including cell proliferation, migration and regulation. Spatial extension captures cell proliferation (changes in organ size and shape), and the sensing and control of morphogenesis; spatio-temporal events include cell differentiation and replication, and changes in cellular composition and gene expression. Permutations and variabilities outline the spatial determinants of cell differentiation, mechanical adhesive feedback and heterocellular signalling by ligands. Time series trajectories reveal fate-biased migrating progenitors, lineage specifications and cell migration. c, Utility and applications of the HDCA: cellular and molecular biological insights into the coordination of organ development across the whole embryo (left) are applied to advance regenerative medicine, tissue engineering and therapeutic strategies (right).
