Allen-Cahn Equation for Modeling Temporal Evolution of Non-Conserved Field Variables in Cancer Cell Migration

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5902/2179460X87268

Keywords:

Cell migration, Phase-field models, Allen-Cahn equation, Cancer metastasis, Mathematical modeling

Abstract

This work explores the temporal evolution of non-conserved field variables through the application of the Allen-Cahn equation. The equation forms the basis for various phase-field models used in cell migration studies, particularly in the context of tumor cells and cancer metastasis. The model portrays cells as 2D soft bodies, integrating mechanical and biological aspects to simulate cell movement. The investigation delves into the mathematical representation of cell migration, vital in understanding cancer development and metastasis. The model employs an order parameter to characterize each cell, representing their presence within a cell cluster. By minimizing a specific free energy functional, the equilibrium shape of the soft cell bodies is determined, incorporating parameters that influence elasticity and energetic costs. Additionally, the interaction between cells is incorporated, contributing to a comprehensive portrayal of cell migration. The study yields insights into the complex dynamics of cell migration, enhancing our comprehension of biological processes and potentially informing cancer research strategies.

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Author Biographies

João Gabriel Piraine Bandeira, Universidade Federal de Pelotas

Undergraduate student in Control and Automation Engineering at the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPEL). PIBIC/CNPq scholarship recipient. Chemistry Technician from the Sul-Rio-Grandense Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology (IFSul).

Gustavo Braz Kurz, Universidade Federal de Pelotas

Graduated in Mathematics (Bachelor's degree, 2021) from the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPEL). Currently enrolled in the Mathematical Modeling graduate program at UFPEL, specializing in computational fluid dynamics, focusing on solving the shallow water equation. Working with spatially and temporally finite elements using the CBS method (Characteristic-Based-Split).

Daniela Buske, Universidade Federal de Pelotas

Has a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the Federal University of Santa Maria (1999), a Master's and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (2004; 2008) in the field of Transport Phenomena / Pollutant Dispersion, and a postdoctoral fellowship at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (2011) in Nuclear Engineering.

Régis Sperotto de Quadros, Universidade Federal de Pelotas

Has a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the University of Passo Fundo (2000), a Master's degree in Applied Mathematics from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (2003), a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from the Technische Universität Darmstadt in Darmstadt, Germany (2009), and a Postdoctoral fellowship in Nuclear Energy from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (2014). Has experience in the field of Mathematics, with emphasis on Numerical Analysis and Optimization.

References

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Published

2024-11-04

How to Cite

Bandeira, J. G. P., Kurz, G. B., Buske, D., & Quadros, R. S. de. (2024). Allen-Cahn Equation for Modeling Temporal Evolution of Non-Conserved Field Variables in Cancer Cell Migration. Ciência E Natura, 46(esp. 1), e87268. https://doi.org/10.5902/2179460X87268

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Section

Special Edition 1

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