CoSMoS Lymphocyte Migration

Migration models the migration of lymphocytes from the blood system to the lymphatic system. Inside lymph nodes, there are sections of blood vessel called high endothelial venules through which lymphocytes can pass under certain conditions. When a lymphocyte collides with the HEV wall, it may slow down and roll along the wall. If receptors on the lymphocyte are activated during the rolling process, it can pass through the wall and into the lymph node. The diameter of the HEV can vary as the body responds to infection, which may affect the rate of lymphocyte migration.

Our simulation models a three-dimensional tubular section of HEV, with lymphocytes either flowing freely through the HEV (green), rolling (red) or migrating (blue). The display may be freely rotated and the HEV diameter adjusted while the simulation is running. Counts are displayed of the number of lymphocytes in each state, and of the number that have passed into the blood and lymphatic systems.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• migration
• space