Modeling and Simulation of Cell Adhesion and Detachment

Abstract

This thesis aims to provide in-depth understanding of the mechanics and kinetics of cell adhesion and detachment. Firsly, we design a computational model of cell adhesion to a substrate. Through system parametric studies, we identified three limiting regimes; among them the slowest process will be the major limiting factor to the adhesion. Secondly, we investigate the accuracy of Biomembrane Force Probe (BFP). Through finite element simulations and numerical analysis, we discovered a characteristic non-linear regime. This finding is an important amendment to the existing BFP models, which only considers the linear relation between the BFP stiffness and aspiration pressure. Thirdly, we examine the effect of catch-slip mechanism on multiple-bond decohesions. Our computational analysis reveals that, for a multiple-bond cluster, the catch bond behavior could only be observed under relatively uniform loading conditions and only at the early stages of decohesion.