Bhaskar

Dhananjay Bhaskar

Title: Cell-based models, machine learning and mechanical-biochemical coupling

Abstract:

Computational modelling frameworks like CHASTE (Cancer, Heart and Soft Tissue Environment) and CompuCell3D are widely used to develop multiscale simulations of complex biological systems. These frameworks integrate models of subcellular behaviour (e.g. cell cycle, cell polarity, cell division), models of interaction between cells and models of transport of nutrients/signals at the tissue scale. In my talk, I will introduce the Cellular Potts model (abbreviated CPM, implemented in CompuCell3D) and the Vertex Dynamics model (implemented in CHASTE). In brief, I will describe three work-in-progress projects attempting to answer the following research questions:

a) Are there any significant differences between CPM and Vertex Dynamics simulations of cell sorting?

b) How do 'leader' cells emerge during collective cell migration? Can we automatically classify leader cells?

c) Can we couple simple Rac/Rho biochemistry to cell mechanics in order to investigate cell polarity in-silico?