Critical phenomena in embryonic organization

The physics of critical points lies behind the organization of various complex systems, from molecules to ecosystems. Several functional benefits emerge when operating at the edge of a critical point, at criticality, potentially explaining the optimality of biological function. Here, we propose that introducing the concept of criticality in developmental biology may explain remarkable features of embryonic development, such as collective behavior and fitness. Recent interdisciplinary studies approached embryonic processes with statistical physics frameworks and revealed that biochemical and biomechanical processes of embryonic development resemble critical phenomena. We discuss those processes, including gene expression, cell differentiation, and tissue mechanics, and challenge if criticality has a beneficial function during embryonic organization.