Summary
Cell-contact signalling that controls cell fate choices through lateral inhibition.
In depth
Delta on one cell binds Notch on a neighbour, causing cleavage and release of the intracellular domain to the nucleus. Lateral inhibition creates salt-and-pepper patterns, such as neuron selection. Mutations cause CADASIL and Alagille syndrome.
Notch signalling requires cell-cell contact because the ligand is membrane-bound. Binary fate decisions arise from lateral inhibition and feedback amplification.
Key idea: Notch lets neighbouring cells adopt different fates.
Frequently asked questions
What is Notch Signalling?
Cell-contact signalling that controls cell fate choices through lateral inhibition.
Which area of biology covers Notch Signalling, and how advanced is it?
Notch Signalling is one of the 54 topics in Developmental Biology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Morphogens, Hedgehog Signalling, BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling.
Can you give an example of Notch Signalling?
Notch activity helps set up the fly bristle pattern.
What should I learn before Notch Signalling?
Work through the Beginner topics in Developmental Biology first, such as Fertilisation, Zygote, Embryo, then return to Notch Signalling. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Notch Signalling?
The closest topics to Notch Signalling are Morphogens, Hedgehog Signalling, BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling, Spemann Organiser. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Notch Signalling?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Notch Signalling. To practise the whole of Developmental Biology, use the Developmental Biology quiz.
How is Notch Signalling different from Morphogens?
Notch Signalling: Cell-contact signalling that controls cell fate choices through lateral inhibition. Morphogens: Signalling molecules whose concentration gradient instructs cells to adopt different fates. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Notch Signalling step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Morphogens and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Developmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.