FURI | Spring 2018

Modeling Extra Cellular Matrix (ECM) Re-organization Due to Cell-ECM Mechanical Interactions

This research focused on the systematic investigation of cell-ECM mechanical interactions through quantitative examination of 165 high-resolution time-lapse data of multi-cellular systems of collective cell migration. The researcher then focused on developing a computational model simulating the dynamic force network in ECM generated by contracting cells. The interaction model of cancer cell protrusions, and the migration toward normal cells focused on correlations between cell contraction and dynamic states of neighboring cells. Single cells were monitored for volume, protrusion development, and temporal correlations as a function of time. Continued analysis and modeling will help validate the theory.