Computational model for amoeboid motion: Coupling membrane and cytosol dynamics

Adrian Moure and Hector Gomez
Phys. Rev. E 94, 042423 – Published 26 October 2016
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Abstract

A distinguishing feature of amoeboid motion is that the migrating cell undergoes large deformations, caused by the emergence and retraction of actin-rich protrusions, called pseudopods. Here, we propose a cell motility model that represents pseudopod dynamics, as well as its interaction with membrane signaling molecules. The model accounts for internal and external forces, such as protrusion, contraction, adhesion, surface tension, or those arising from cell-obstacle contacts. By coupling the membrane and cytosol interactions we are able to reproduce a realistic picture of amoeboid motion. The model results are in quantitative agreement with experiments and show how cells may take advantage of the geometry of their microenvironment to migrate more efficiently.

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  • Received 22 February 2016
  • Revised 26 May 2016

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.94.042423

©2016 American Physical Society

Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

  1. Research Areas
  1. Physical Systems
Physics of Living Systems

Authors & Affiliations

Adrian Moure* and Hector Gomez

  • Universidade da Coruña, Campus de Elviña, 15071, A Coruña, Spain

  • *a.moure.rosende@udc.es

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Issue

Vol. 94, Iss. 4 — October 2016

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