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Updated: Apr 20, 2026

Quantitative Analysis of Random Migration of Cells Using Time-lapse Video Microscopy
Published on: May 13, 2012
Stochastic variations of migration speed between cells in clonal populations
1BioMEMS Resource Center, Division of Surgery, Science and Bioengineering, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 20129, USA.
Abstract:
We combined microfluidic tools and molecular probes to monitor the migration speed of successive generations of cancer cells. We found that the migratory speed of individual cells changes stochastically from parent cells to their descendants, while the average speed of successive generations of cells remains constant. Further studies of the interrelations between cell migration and division processes may help identify the molecular determinants of cell speed and lead to new therapies to slow the invasion of cancer cells and delay metastases.
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