KIT

Abstract

In this talk we discuss kinetic models for self-organization of cells. The framework is the Othmer-Dunbar-Alt model. It describes a velocity-jump process accounting for the motion of cells (e.g. bacteria) biased by a chemical signal. Several behaviours can be observed, ranging from blow-up in finite time to propagation of traveling waves. Blow-up is proved for a specific choice of the model under radial symmetry. The issue of traveling bands of bacteria is addressed through a more involved model. Comparison to experimental data is also discussed. This is a joint work with N. Bournaveas (Univ. Edinburgh), B. Perthame (Univ. Paris 6 "Pierre & Marie Curie"), and A. Buguin, J. Saragosti, P. Silberzan (Institut Curie, Paris).