Comparing cell geometry in scaffolded vs. non-scaffolded environment using the cellular Potts model
Abstract
The linear area energy constrained-cellular Potts model (CPM) was employed to simulate cell shape transformation influenced by substrate contact guidance. Cells were modeled in a 3D lattice with and without scaffold support to mimic extracellular matrix conditions and results show that cells without scaffolds exhibited abnormal shrinkage and random protrusions, indicating instability in the absence of adhesion cues. In contrast, cells seeded on structured pillar array scaffolds fluctuated closely to the target volumes and exhibited surface area expansion aligned with the linear area energy constraint we employed. In particular, the scaffold-supported system yielded overall cell volumes ranging from 246−263 vx (480.47−513.67 μm3) where the target value of 257 vx (501.95 μm3) lies, with only 2.3−4.3% deviation.
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Entangled!
25-28 June 2025, National Institute of Physics, University of the Philippines Diliman
Please visit the SPP2025 activity webpage for more information on this year's Physics Congress.