Biology
Scientific paper
Jan 2005
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2005ijasb...4...81n&link_type=abstract
International Journal of Astrobiology, vol. 4, Issue 1, p.81-91
Biology
Modelling Self-Assembly, Protocells, Micelle Size Distribution.
Scientific paper
This paper is a discussion on how reaction kinetics and three-dimensional (3D) lattice simulations can be used to elucidate the dynamical properties of micelles as a possible minimal protocell container. We start with a general discussion on the role of molecular self-assembly in prebiotic and contemporary biological systems. A simple reaction kinetic model of a micellation process of amphiphilic molecules in water is then presented and solved analytically. Amphiphilic molecules are polymers with hydrophobic (water-fearing), e.g. hydrocarbon tail groups, and hydrophilic (water-loving) head groups, e.g. fatty acids. By making a few simplifying assumptions an analytical expression for the size distribution of the resulting micelles can be derived. The main part of the paper presents and discusses a lattice gas technique for a more detailed 3D simulation of molecular self-assembly of amphiphilic polymers in aqueous environments. Water molecules, hydrocarbon tail groups and hydrophilic head groups are explicitly represented on a three-dimensional discrete lattice. Molecules move on the lattice proportional to their continuous momentum. Collision rules preserve momentum and kinetic energy. Potential energy from molecular interactions are also included explicitly. The non-trivial thermodynamics of large-scale and long-time dynamics are studied. In this paper we specifically demonstrate how, from a random initial distribution, micelles are formed and grow until they destabilize and can divide. Eventually a steady state of growing and dividing micelles is formed. Towards the end of the paper we discuss the relevance of the presented results to the design of a minimal artificial protocell.
Nilsson Jacobi Martin
Rasmussen Steen
Tunstrøm Kolbjørn
No associations
LandOfFree
Modelling the dynamics of a minimal protocell container 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 Modelling the dynamics of a minimal protocell container, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Modelling the dynamics of a minimal protocell container will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-808363