Fig. 7.

Distribution of osteoblasts at E17.5 from simulation results using various computational models. a Result using a model with only assumptions A1 and A2, without the assumption pertaining to mechanical effects. Bones grow and form sutures through reaction-diffusion process. b Result using a model with assumptions A1, A2, and only the assumption about the mechanical effect on production of activator (A3a). Locations of primary ossification centers are specified by the mechanical effect on the production of activator. c Result using a model with all assumptions A1, A2, and A3. Relative speed of bone growth is achieved by the mechanical effect on cell differentiation (A3b).