The influence of cell phenotype on collective cell invasion into the extracellular matrix

Understanding the interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) during collective cell invasion is crucial for advancements in tissue engineering, cancer therapies, and regenerative medicine. This study focuses on the roles of contact guidance and ECM remodelling in directing cell behaviour, with a particular emphasis on exploring how differences in cell phenotype impact collective cell invasion. We present a computationally tractable two-dimensional hybrid model of collective cell migration within the ECM, where cells are modelled as individual entities and collagen fibres as a continuous tensorial field. Our model incorporates random motility, contact guidance, cell-cell adhesion, volume filling, and the dynamic remodelling of collagen fibres through cellular secretion and degradation. Through a comprehensive parameter sweep, we provide valuable insights into how differences in the cell phenotype, in terms of the ability of the cell to migrate, secrete, degrade, and respond to contact guidance cues from the ECM, impacts the characteristics of collective cell invasion.