Why are combinatorial codes of molecules important for devel

Why are \"combinatorial codes\" of molecules important for development? Describe an example that illustrates this idea.

Solution

Combinatorial codes play an important role in the development of cells. They are a specific combination of transcription factors (TF’s) which are differently expressed by a group of cells, that instruct and predict the type or fate of the cells, resulting in the broad range of tissue and cellular diversity (specialized to perform particular functions). For example, the manner in which the terminal and unique identities of neural subtypes are defined largely based on the activity of combinatorial codes of TF’s.During development of these cells, the fate of the cell is determined by signals that ultimately result in specific changes in gene expression inside the cell. This change in gene expression will lead to the diversity of cell type.

Another one example depicting the role of combinatorial molecules for development is pituitary development. Here the different cell types development of pituitary are orchestrated through the combinatorial actions of a signaling pathway induced transcription factors which, on the basis of their distinct and overlapping expression patterns, and functional interactions, ultimately has given rise to the generation of functionally distinct cell types from a common ectodermal primordium.