Morphomechanics: An Updated View

Abstract

A mechanical approach to the study of morphogenesis, called morphomechanics, is outlined. It is based on the idea that living matter can mechanically self-organize into forms without the need for a pre-pattern, as recently contemplated by the physics of active matter. It is shown how morphomechanics provides a framework for the integration of mechanical, molecular and bioelectrical signals in embryogenesis.