A computational method for inferring growth parameters and shape changes during development based on clonal analysis

We describe a method for estimating growth parameters in various regions of a developing organ undergoing cell divisions, along with the corresponding changes in organ shape. Growth parameters are computed by coupling clonal analysis with a growth model, allowing a wide range of developmental stages to be covered. The method was applied to the development of dorsal petal lobes of Antirrhinum majus. The resulting description of growth patterns and shape changes is consistent with direct observations using scanning electron microscopy. This method can potentially be applied to other organs, and opens the way to comparative studies of growth and gene expression patterns.