Computational Modeling of Collective Cell Migration: Mechanical and Biochemical Aspects

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2019:1146:1-11. doi: 10.1007/978-3-030-17593-1_1.

Abstract

Collective cell migration plays key roles in various physiological and pathological processes in multicellular organisms, including embryonic development, wound healing, and formation of cancer metastases. Such collective migration involves complex crosstalk among cells and their environment at both biochemical and mechanical levels. Here, we review various computational modeling strategies that have been helpful in decoding the dynamics of collective cell migration. Most of such attempts have focused either aspect - mechanical or biochemical regulation of collective cell migration, and have yielded complementary insights. Finally, we suggest some possible ways to integrate these models to gain a more comprehensive understanding of collective cell migration.

Keywords: Collective cell migration; Epithelial mesenchymal plasticity; Phase field model; Subcelluar element model; Wound healing.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Movement* / physiology
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological*
  • Wound Healing