Monte carlo simulation of heterotypic cell aggregation in nonlinear shear flow.

In this paper, we develop a population balance model for cell aggregation and adhesion process in a nonuniform shear flow. Some Monte Carlo simulation results based on the model are presented for the heterotypic cell-cell collision and adhesion to a substrate under dynamic shear forces. In particular, we focus on leukocyte (PMN)-melanoma cell emboli formation and subsequent tethering to the vascular endothelium (EC) as a result of cell-cell aggregation. The simulation results are compared with the results of experimental measurement. Discussions are made on how we could further improve the accuracy of the population balance type modelling.