A model for asymmetrical cell division

Math Biosci Eng. 2015 Jun;12(3):491-501. doi: 10.3934/mbe.2015.12.491.

Abstract

We present a model that describes the growth, division and death of a cell population structured by size. The model is an extension of that studied by Hall and Wake (1989) and incorporates the asymmetric division of cells. We consider the case of binary asymmetrical splitting in which a cell of size ε divides into two daughter cells of different sizes and find the steady size distribution (SSD) solution to the non-local differential equation. We then discuss the shape of the SSD solution. The existence of higher eigenfunctions is also discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Count
  • Cell Division / physiology*
  • Cell Enlargement*
  • Cell Proliferation / physiology*
  • Cell Size
  • Computer Simulation
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological*
  • Models, Statistical*