A computational method for simulating growth patterns in unicell propagation

Abstract

The modelling of natural phenomena through the use of computer-generated graphics has attracted much interest recently. It is believed that such methods will lead to new breakthroughs in understanding nature. One of the most popular methods used is the “cell automata” method, where cells are made to propagate and form cellular patterns according to certain predefined rules. Although much of the work in this area is for recreational purposes, as in the “Game of Life”, there can be more serious aspects to it. One of these is in the use of such methods to predict and simulate the growth behaviour of cell clusters in real-life situations. In this study, an attempt is made to formalise certain rules for modelling the growth characteristics of unicell populations. The methodology proposed models three fundamental factors: first, the generic propagational characteristics of a cell; second, the effect of adverse factors to growth; and, third, the effect of spatial constraints. The first two factors, relating to the population of a cell colony, can be modelled mathematically; the third factor determines the visual appearance of the cell colony. Patterns resulting from some computational simulations are presented and discussed.