Collective Cell Movement under Cell-Scale Tension Gradient at Tissue Interface

In this study, we examine the emergence of cell flow induced by a tension gradient on a tissue interface, as in the case of the Marangoni flow at liquid interfaces. We consider the molecular density polarity of the heterophilic adhesion between tissues as the origin of the tension gradient. Applying the cellular Potts model, we demonstrate that polarization in concentrations (i.e., intracellular localization) of heterophilic adhesion molecules can induce cell flows similar to the conventional Marangoni flow. In contrast to the conventional Marangoni flow, this flow is oriented in the direction opposite to that of the tension gradient. The optimal range of adhesion strength for the existence of this flow is also identified.