Spatio-temporal Dynamics of the Cell: Characterization from Images and Computer Simulations

The spatio-temporal dynamics of the cell, in other words the cell movements and deformations, were for a long time assimilated to random fluctuations. However a minute observation revealed the existence of recurring patterns of deformations for rounded cell types. The aim of this study is to investigate the spatio-temporal dynamics of another phenotypically different and important cell, the fibroblast. This investigation is based on image analysis and the development of specific strategies to track down the spatio-temporal cell signature. Interpretation of the results is performed by mean of a theoretical model putting forward original biomechanical hypotheses tested in computer simulations. Deciphering to gain control over the processes of cell motility is one of the biggest challenge in cell biology because of the considerable implications of this multifactorial event involved in embryogenesis, wound healing and cancer invasion. This study is a case example for multidisciplinarity. It can be of interest to anyone with a desire to explore non-conventional approaches in science whether they come from biology, mathematics, physics or computing.