Figure 1.

Flowchart of the Model

(A–C) In Model 1, (A) the cellular Potts model (CPM) predicts cell deformation based on contractile forces due to surface tension, balanced by cell-ECM adhesion and activity of the FAs; (B) additional cellular traction forces are calculated based on cytoskeleton bulk contractility and matrix stiffness; (C) the build-up of traction forces is calculated jointly with the growth of the FAs.

(D) In Model 2, the stability of the FAs also depends on planar stress in the ECM, calculated using a finite-element model.