Multi-Agent Simulation of Self-Organizing Behaviors of Alveolar Cells In Vitro

We present an agent-based model of cultured lung alveolar type II (AT II) cells and simulation results that provide early insight into generative principles underpinning alveolar morphogenesis in 3D cell cultures. We also describe a supporting framework and system-level agents that manage simulation experiments. The AT II cell-mimetic analogue comprises discrete components that represent cells and basic parts composing cell cultures. Cells are represented as quasi-autonomous agents that act based on decision logic and a set of operating principles articulated as axioms. By adhering strictly to those principles, cell agents self-organize and develop into multi-cell structures that resemble alveolar-like cysts in vitro. While it is premature to assign a specific biological mapping to the in silico operating principles, the findings enforce the idea that complex morphogenetic phenomena are a consequence of adherence to a small set of epigenetic principles. We expect more advanced adaptations will provide a rigorous platform to unravel the mechanistic bases of alveolar development and regeneration.