Haptotaxis Cell Migration

Cells migrate up substrate adhesion gradients

Cell mass: — | Migration front: —
Haptotaxis model: ∂c/∂t = D∇²c − ∇·(χc∇ρ) where c is cell density and ρ is substrate adhesion ligand. Cells (green) migrate up the adhesion gradient (purple→yellow), degrading substrate as they move. High χ → directed migration wave; low χ → diffuse spreading. Click to place new cells.