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arXiv · 1612.09052

Chase-and-run dynamics in cell motility and the molecular rupture of interacting active elastic dimers

David Mayett·Nicholas Bitten·Moumita Das·J. M. Schwarz
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Abstract

Cell migration in morphogenesis and cancer metastasis typically involves interplay between different cell types. We construct and study a minimal, one-dimensional model comprised of two different motile cells with each cell represented as an active elastic dimer. The interaction between the two cells via cadherins is modeled as a spring that can rupture beyond a threshold force as it undergoes dynamic loading via the attached motile cells. We obtain a phase diagram consisting of chase-and-run dynamics and clumping dynamics as a function of the stiffness of the interaction spring and the threshold force. We also find that while feedback between cadherins and cell-substrate interaction via integrins accentuates the chase-run behavior, feedback is not necessary for it.

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David Mayett, Nicholas Bitten, Moumita Das, J. M. Schwarz. 2016-12-29. Chase-and-run dynamics in cell motility and the molecular rupture of interacting active elastic dimers. https://doi.org/10.1103/physreve.96.032407

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