  Using a stochastic individual-based modelling approach, we examine the role
that Delta-Notch signalling plays in the regulation of a robust and reliable
somite segmentation clock. We find that not only can Delta-Notch signalling
synchronise noisy cycles of gene expression in adjacent cells in the presomitic
mesoderm (as is known), but it can also amplify and increase the coherence of
these cycles. We examine some of the shortcomings of deterministic approaches
to modelling these cycles and demonstrate how intrinsic noise can play an
active role in promoting sustained oscillations, giving rise to noise-induced
quasi-cycles. Finally, we explore how translational/transcriptional delays can
result in the cycles in neighbouring cells oscillating in anti-phase and we
study how this effect relates to the propagation of noise-induced stochastic
waves.
