A continuum model to analyse spatial cell fluxes from positional labelling data applied to cell migration in oral mucosa.

A novel method is presented which allows the estimation of the velocity of migrating cells from positional 3HTdR labelling data in spatially organized epithelial tissues. In a continuum approach, wave-like profiles of labelling index (LI) data, which travel away from the basal layer, are followed and compared with experimental LI profiles. The method yields estimates of migration velocity, cell flow, and turnover time. Results for the ventral tongue mucosa in a group of 55 BDF1 mice that were labelled at the same time of the day and culled at different time points within a 24-h period have been analysed. The results show a strong circadian rhythm in the migration velocity and the related parameters.