Cellsthough

Cellsthough is a neologism proposed in theoretical discussions of cell biology to describe a cross-scale framework for studying how cellular programs endure across changing environments and developmental stages. The term treats cells as agents whose intrinsic gene regulatory networks interact with external cues in a continuous, rather than purely discrete, manner.

Origin and usage: The term emerged in recent speculative and computational literature as a way to articulate questions about cellular continuity. It is not widely adopted or standardized, and there is no formal consensus on its definition or measurement.

Concepts: Key ideas include a) cell-intrinsic states defined by transcriptional and epigenetic profiles, b) external context via signaling milieu, neighboring cells, and tissue mechanics, and c) through-lines that connect pre- and post-context states, allowing for partial memory of past states. The framework supports lineage-informed modeling and trajectory inference that accommodate context-dependent plasticity.

Methods and applications: Researchers use time-resolved single-cell sequencing, lineage tracing, imaging, and computational modeling to assess continuity of states. Potential applications include understanding developmental robustness, cancer cell plasticity, and regenerative responses, where cells retain a latent program across environments.

Critique and status: As a term, cellsthough remains speculative and informal. Critics argue it risks conflating concepts from developmental biology and philosophy of mind. Proponents see value in guiding integrated analyses across scales.