Fig. 1: This study develops a cellular plasticity model based on simulated cellular interactions, incorporating reaction–diffusion dynamics and environmental stimuli (left).
From: Cellular plasticity model for self-organized phenotypes in multi-cellular robots
These interactions drive the self-organization of Loopy’s cell phenotypes (right, blue vs. red). Specifically, this work focuses on mechanical properties such as stiffness and damping, which adapt to support Loopy’s behavior in response to its shape and environment. Notably, Loopy exhibits a cluster of red (flexible) phenotypes in regions where environmental confinement induces deformation.
