Cellular Potts modeling of complex multicellular behaviors in tissue morphogenesis

Area of Science:

• Computational Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Biophysics

Background:

• Multicellular behaviors in tissue morphogenesis are complex and require advanced analytical approaches.
• Mathematical modeling offers a framework for understanding these intricate biological processes.
• The Cellular Potts Model (CPM), also known as the Glazier-Graner-Hogeweg model, is a versatile computational tool for simulating cell dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the Cellular Potts Model (CPM) as a computational framework for studying tissue morphogenesis.
• To demonstrate the utility of CPM in modeling fundamental developmental phenomena.
• To provide an introductory guide for biologists interested in CPM simulation analysis.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on the Cellular Potts Model (CPM).
• Examination of four key examples of tissue morphogenesis: cell sorting, cyst formation, kidney tube development, and blood vessel formation.
• Discussion of CPM's application in simulating these biological processes.

Main Results:

• The Cellular Potts Model (CPM) effectively simulates diverse tissue morphogenesis processes.
• CPM analysis provides insights into cell sorting, cyst formation, kidney tubulogenesis, and angiogenesis.
• The framework is adaptable for exploring various complex multicellular behaviors.

Conclusions:

• The Cellular Potts Model (CPM) is a valuable and accessible computational tool for developmental biologists.
• CPM simulations facilitate the understanding of complex tissue formation mechanisms.
• This review serves as a starting point for biologists to engage with CPM for simulation-based research.