The European network

for cell migration studies

14 - Integrating shape change models and imaging – inverse problem solving

        and model validation

In a first step, we will establish models of cytoskeletal network dynamics representing the geometrical structure extracted from imaging data. Micro-physical properties of the filament structures are modeled such that resulting network dynamics and global bio-physical properties correspond to measured data. In a second step, we will fit the model to the image sequence through optimization of the model’s free parameters. Examples for these parameters are elasticity parameters of the network filaments or vector field parameters modeling external forces. Third, we will validate predictions made based on the model and verify model assumptions, especially in case of perturbation of the experimental conditions. Finally, we integrate cellular components as modeled by other partners of InCeM. Thus, we obtain a comprehensive cell model allowing us to investigate the interplay of different cellular structures.

Active contour model for actin fiber dynamics

Extraction of velocity values for actin fibers

Last update: 28.05.2018

incem@rwth-aachen.de

Advanced cell migration assays (P1)

Chemotaxis and 2D/3D Migration (P2)

Analysis of keratin dynamics during migration (P3)

Impact of keratin network regulation on migrating cells (P4)

Correlation analyses of migration structure components and front-rear interplay (P5)

Life cycle analysis of actin, focal adhesions and force measurements (P6)

Monitoring of cancer cell migration in living animals  (P7)

Principles of the filopodia structure, dynamics and mechanics (P8)

Mechanisms of downstream signalling from the Rho GTPase network to

cell morphogenesis and cell motility (P9)

Real-time tracking of keratinocyte migration and analysis of cell membrane shape changes (P10)

Image analysis of integrated cytoskeletal network dynamics (P11)

Coupling bulk-surface models for cell migration (P12)

Shaping membranes and actin fibres by forces (P13)

Integrating shape change models and imaging – inverse problem solving and model validation (P14)

Understanding spatio-temporal dynamics of the cytosol network during cell migration  (P15)

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement No 642866.