Simulation of biological cell sorting using a two-dimensional extended Potts model

Abstract

We simulate the sorting of a mixture of two types of biological cells using a modified version of the large-Q Potts model with differential adhesivity. We find long-distance cell movement leading to sorting with a logarithmic increase in the length scale of homogeneous clusters. Sorted clusters then round. We find two successive phases: A rapid boundary-driven creation of a low-cohesivity cell monolayer around the aggregate, and a slower boundary-independent internal rearrangement.