Simplified models of Dictyostelium discoideum aggregation and slug migration
Date
2006-11-15
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Abstract
Biological models of Dictyostelium discoideum behaviours are often
quite complex. Computer simulations using simplified models provide insight
into the biological behaviours but rely on complex mathematics. We studied
whether characteristic slime mold behaviours can occur in very simple models
that can be easily implemented with any graphical simulation engine. We
proposed two excitation based models: neighbour and spherical models, and one
simplified cAMP propagation model - the grid model. We succeeded in producing
streaming and spiral patterns in aggregation and characteristic thermotaxis in
the slug migration life stage of Dictyostelium discoideum.
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Computer Science