Actin based propulsion: Intriguing interplay between material properties and growth processes

Details Actin based propulsion: Intriguing interplay between material properties and growth processes Actin based propulsion: Intriguing interplay between material properties and growth processes

2009-09-03

arxiv.org/abs/0909.0630v1

Physics

Condensed Matter

Soft Condensed Matter

16 pages, 14 figures, chapter in book "Cell mechanics: from single scale-based models to multiscale modelling"

Scientific paper

Eukaryotic cells and intracellular pathogens such as bacteria or viruses utilize the actin polymerization machinery to propel themselves forward. Thereby, the onset of motion and choice of direction may be the result of a spontaneous symmetry-breaking or might be triggered by external signals and preexisting asymmetries, e.g. through a previous septation in bacteria. Although very complex, a key feature of cellular motility is the ability of actin to form dense polymeric networks, whose microstructure is tightly regulated by the cell. These polar actin networks produce the forces necessary for propulsion but may also be at the origin of a spontaneous symmetry-breaking. Understanding the exact role of actin dynamics in cell motility requires multiscale approaches which capture at the same time the polymer network structure and dynamics on the scale of a few nanometers and the macroscopic distribution of elastic stresses on the scale of the whole cell. In this chapter we review a selection of theories on how mechanical material properties and growth processes interact to induce the onset of actin based motion.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Actin based propulsion: Intriguing interplay between material properties and growth processes does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Actin based propulsion: Intriguing interplay between material properties and growth processes, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Actin based propulsion: Intriguing interplay between material properties and growth processes will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-663818