zoom link : https://stockholmuniversity.zoom.us/j/622224375
Abstract :
Collective cellular behavior is integral to various biological processes, from developmental morphogenesis to pathological conditions like cancer metastasis. Our previous research on a mutant strain of Dictyostelium discoideum has demonstrated that these cells exhibit collective migration behaviors, including chain migration and traveling band formation, driven by a unique mechanism we term ”contact following locomotion” (CFL). In this study, we identify an imbalance of forces between the leading and trailing cells within these chains, resulting in additional propulsion force forthe rear cells.
To model this phenomenon, we propose a theoretical framework incorporating non-reciprocal cell–cell interactions. Our analysis reveals that these non-reciprocal interactions, combined with self-alignment mechanisms, play a critical role in the observed collective migration patterns. Additionally, we present a detailed phase diagram that characterizes distinct phases at both low and intermediate cell densities. This phase diagram provides a clearer understanding of the specific regimes corresponding to the experimental observations, offering insights into the dynamics governing collective cellular behavior.