Dynamic Strands in VR – an application for chromosome separation in cell division as a teaching tool for biology students

Assigned Computer Science Games Engineering Bachelor Master Project Thesis Games Research Lab

Background

Life is defined by cell division: a complex process that ensures the correct distribution of the chromosomes to the two daughter cells. If cell division goes wrong, the cell will die, or, in the worst case, become cancerous. When a cell divides, it first duplicates its DNA content. Later on, the DNA condenses into visible X-shaped chromosomes that consist of two identical chromatids, still hold tightly together. In a cell cycle phase called metaphase, these X-shaped, condensed chromosomes align to the middle of the cell and get attached to rope-like structures: the microtubules of the spindle apparatus (see Figure). Once all chromosomes are correctly attached, the connections between the two chromatids break. This is the signal for three different sets of microtubules to change their lengths (a process called depolymerization or polymerization) and move the two chromatids to the opposite poles of the cell. Finally, the cell divides.

The aim of this project is to develop a virtual reality (VR) application for biology students at bachelor level that will help them to understand the cell cycle. The application will be used as part of a practical, four-week class that is run each October.

The application will consist of two parts. In the first part, students will engage in an interactive assembly of a metaphase cell, using available components, such as chromosomes, microtubules, spindle poles. Once everything is correctly constructed, they will see a small simulation of the cell division as a reward. The software can be tested on “real” biology students in October 2024.

Tasks

This project will focus on the following tasks:

• VR Environment Creation: Create a VR environment where all essential components for constructing a metaphase cell are accessible to users.
• Logic for Component Placement: Integrate a logical framework that guides users on the correct placement of cellular components within the metaphase structure. This should include clear indicators or feedback mechanisms for correctly and incorrectly placed elements.
• Microtubule Mechanism Development: Devise and implement a mechanism for the microtubules, which could take various forms such as pliable foam-like structures, elastic bands, crystal-like structure, light beams, or rope-like elements. These microtubules must be interactive and responsive to physics-based controls, allowing for a realistic simulation of the forces exerted during cell division.

Prerequisites

• Experience with Unreal or Unity
• Experience with VR development recommended

Contact Persons at the University Würzburg