Cellular aggregate formation: Continuum modelling and computational aspects

Firooz S, Reddy BD, Zaburdaev V, Steinmann P (2026)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2026

Journal

Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering Elsevier

Book Volume: 451

Article Number: 118687

DOI: 10.1016/j.cma.2025.118687

Open Access Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0045782525009594

Abstract

In this manuscript, we carry out a systematic study on the mechanics and rheology of cellular aggregate formations. We study how cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions influence cellular aggregation, which can be described as an active phase separation process. Furthermore, we investigate the mechanisms underlying the coalescence of aggregates. The problem is analyzed in both Eulerian and Lagrangian frameworks and the computational intricacies for each approach are highlighted. Using our recently developed micromorphic-based artificial diffusion method, we circumvent the numerical instabilities arising from the convective nature of the problem. Finally, via a comprehensive numerical study, we investigate the dynamics of the cellular aggregate formation under various conditions. A notable agreement between the numerical and experimental results is observed. Our work provides significant insights into the mechanics of cellular aggregates which paves the way for better understanding the role of active mechanical forces in biological systems.

Authors with CRIS profile

Soheil Firooz Lehrstuhl für Technische Mechanik (LTM) Vasily Zaburdaev Lehrstuhl für Mathematik in den Lebenswissenschaften Paul Steinmann Lehrstuhl für Technische Mechanik (LTM)

Additional Organisation(s)

Sonderforschungsbereich 1540/1 - Erforschung der Mechanik des Gehirns (EBM): Verständnis, Engineering und Nutzung mechanischer Eigenschaften und Signale in der Entwicklung, Physiologie und Pathologie des zentralen Nervensystems

Involved external institutions

University of Cape Town (UCT)

South Africa (ZA)

How to cite

APA:

Firooz, S., Reddy, B.D., Zaburdaev, V., & Steinmann, P. (2026). Cellular aggregate formation: Continuum modelling and computational aspects. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, 451. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cma.2025.118687

MLA:

Firooz, Soheil, et al. "Cellular aggregate formation: Continuum modelling and computational aspects." Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering 451 (2026).

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