Model-based comparison of cell density-dependent cell migration strategies

Abstract

Here, we investigate different cell density-dependent migration strategies. In particular, we consider strategies which differ in the precise regulation of transitions between resting and motile phenotypes. We develop a lattice-gas cellular automaton (LGCA) model for each migration strategy. Using a mean-field approximation we quantify the corresponding spreading dynamics at the cell population level. Our results allow for the prediction of cell population spreading based on experimentally accessible single cell migration parameters.