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Modeling of adhesion, protrusion, and contraction coordination for cell migration simulations
Y Sakamoto1, S Prudhomme, M H Zaman
1Institute for Computational Engineering and Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, Austin, TX, 78712, USA, ysakamoto@ices.utexas.edu.
Journal of Mathematical Biology
|December 25, 2012
Summary
Cell migration involves complex processes like adhesion and contraction. This study models cell mechanics to understand the reversible switch between amoeboid and mesenchymal migration modes, crucial for tumor invasion.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
- Computational Biology
Background:
- Cell migration is a fundamental biological process essential for development and disease, involving coordinated sub-processes.
- Tumor cells exhibit distinct migration modes (amoeboid and mesenchymal) and can reversibly switch between them.
- Biophysical and biomechanical properties of cells and their microenvironment influence migration mode transitions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of internal cellular mechanics in the transition between amoeboid and mesenchymal migration modes.
- To develop a computational model simulating the dynamical behavior of migrating cells.
- To provide insights into the regulation of cell migration during tumor invasion and metastasis.
Main Methods:
- Developed a novel axisymmetric hyperviscoelastic cell model.
- Simulated the dynamical behavior of a migrating cell using the developed model.
- Quantitatively analyzed the influence of cellular biomechanical properties on migration modes.
Main Results:
- The study's numerical results quantitatively demonstrate the significant role of cellular biomechanical properties in the amoeboid-mesenchymal transition.
- The developed model provides a platform for simulating cellular processes and understanding migration dynamics.
- Insights into sub-cellular mechanics regulating migration modes during tumor invasion and metastasis were gained.
Conclusions:
- Cellular biomechanical properties are critical regulators of the amoeboid-mesenchymal transition.
- The developed hyperviscoelastic cell model serves as a valuable tool for studying cell migration.
- Understanding these mechanisms can inform strategies against tumor invasion and metastasis.
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01:09Cell Migration
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01:19Cell Migration
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