  Organogenesis is a tightly regulated process that has been studied
experimentally for decades. Computational models can help to integrate
available knowledge and to better understand the underlying regulatory logic.
We are currently studying mechanistic models for the development of limbs,
lungs, kidneys, and bone. We have tested a number of alternative methods to
solve our spatio- temporal differential equation models of reaction-diffusion
type on growing domains of realistic shape, among them finite elements in
COMSOL Multiphysics. Given the large number of variables (up to fifteen), the
sharp domain boundaries, the travelling wave character of some solutions, and
the stiffness of the reactions we are facing numerous numerical challenges. To
test new ideas efficiently we have developed a strategy to optimize simulation
times in COMSOL.
