Models for movement and pattern formation

Kevin Painter (Applied Mathematics, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK)

Abstract: Successful navigation through a complicated and evolving environment is a fundamental task carried out by both cells and organisms, with migration paths staggering in their length and intricacy. Selecting a path requires the detection, processing and integration of a myriad of cues drawn from their surroundings and in many instances it is the intrinsic orientation of the environment that provides a valuable navigational aid. In this talk I will describe some models used to describe movement, showing their capacity to gain insight into a number of important biological processes, including the invasion of tumour cells into surrounding tissue.