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.