Viscoelasticity of multicellular systems caused by collective cell migration: multiscale modeling considerations

Abstract Long-time viscoelasticity of multicellular surfaces caused by collective cell migration depends on (1) the volume fraction and configuration of migrating cells, (2) the viscoelasticity of migrating cell clusters, and (3) the viscoelasticity of surrounding resting cells. The factors such as size, fluidity, and thickness of the biointerface represent key parameters that influence viscoelasticity. The biointerface dynamics is affected by local accumulation of residual stress (1) within the core regions of migrating cell clusters (internal effects) and (2) during a collision of velocity fronts (external effects). The impact of the biointerface dynamics (controlled by biochemical processes such as cell signaling and gene expression) on viscoelasticity is formulated based on mechanical coupling modes considered at mesoscopic and macroscopic levels. The results are discussed on two-model systems: (1) cell aggregate uniaxial compression between parallel plates and (2) cell aggregate micropipette aspiration.