Collective Cell Motion in an Epithelial Sheet Can Be Quantitatively Described by a Stochastic Interacting Particle Model

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1002944
• Publication Date: 2013-03-07T21:55:38Z
• Authors: Néstor Sepúlveda; Laurence Petitjean; Olivier Cochet; Erwan Grasland-Mo...; Pascal Silberzan; Vincent Hakim
• Keywords: Dynamics; Particle (ecology); Stochastic modelling

Modelling the displacement of thousands cells that move in a collective way is required for simulation and theoretical analysis various biological processes. Here, we tackle this question controlled setting where motion Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) confluent epithelium triggered by unmasking free surface. We develop simple model which are described as point particles with dynamic based on two premises that, first, stochastic manner and, second, tend to adapt their neighbors. Detailed comparison experimental data show provides quantitatively accurate description cell bulk at early times. In addition, inclusion “leader” modified characteristics, accounts digitated shape interface develops over subsequent hours, providing leader invade surface more easily than other coordinate followers. The previously-described progression border reproduced explained.