EpiLog

EpiLog models epithelial pattern formation and tissue-level dynamics using Boolean and multi-valued logical frameworks to study gene regulatory networks and intercellular and micro-environmental signaling.

Key Features:

• Logical Framework: EpiLog employs Boolean or multi-valued logical models for qualitative representation of signaling pathways and gene regulatory networks.
• Tissue-Level Extension: The tool represents a mono-layer epithelium as a collection of hexagonal cells arranged on a 2D grid to extend cell-level logic to a tissue context.
• Cellular Automaton: Cell behaviors are updated in a cellular automaton where associated logical models respond to external signals from surrounding cells and micro-environmental cues.
• Simulation and Visualization: Supports simulation and visualization of qualitative models to observe dynamics and pattern formation in epithelial tissues.

Scientific Applications:

• Epithelial pattern formation: Analysis of how regulatory networks and intercellular signaling generate tissue-level patterns.
• Cell differentiation and morphogenesis: Study of cell fate decisions and morphogenetic processes within epithelial tissues.
• Responses to environmental cues: Modeling of cellular responses to external signals and micro-environmental changes.
• Developmental biology, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine: Investigation of mechanisms underlying epithelial development and tissue organization.

Methodology:

Uses Boolean or multi-valued logical models applied to hexagonal cells on a 2D grid representing a mono-layer epithelium; operates as a cellular automaton with cell states governed by logical rules that integrate external signals; supports simulation and visualization of qualitative tissue dynamics.