Simulation of Early C. elegans Embryogenesis

Wigell, Rachel Ellen

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Simulation of Early C. elegans Embryogenesis

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This project simulates the development of the microscopic worm, C. elegans, up to the twenty- six cell stage. Advanced concepts in computer graphics, including metaballs, ray tracing, and the Marching Cubes algorithm, were explored in order to depict the irregular shapes found in nature. The forces that dictate cell motion in response to collisions were represented mathematically and included in the model. Finally, the results were compared to empirical data to show that early cell divisions appear to accurately simulate the appearance of biological embryos.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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