Key result
Novel finite-element model simulates actin-myosin motility to assess molecular motor effects on biopolymer networks.
This computational model provides a new finite-element approach to simulate the mechanical behavior of molecular motors like myosin II in biopolymer networks.
New simulation tool for myosin-actin networks; leaves open validation and cardiac mechanobiology applications.
Molecular motors are proteins that excessively increase the efficiency of subcellular transport processes. They allow for cell division, nutrient transport and even macroscopic muscle movement. In order to understand the effect of motors in large biopolymer networks, e.g. the cytoskeleton, we require a suitable model of a molecular motor. In this contribution, we present such a model based on a geometrically exact beam finite-element formulation. We discuss the numerical model of a non-processive motor such as myosin II, which interacts with actin filaments. Based on experimental data and inspired by the theoretical understanding offered by the power-stroke model and the swinging-cross-bridge model, we parametrize our numerical model in order to achieve the effect that a physiological motor has on its cargo. To this end, we introduce the mechanical and mathematical foundations of the model, then discuss its calibration, prove its usefulness by conducting finite-element simulations of actin-myosin motility assays and assess the influence of motors on the rheology of semi-flexible biopolymer networks.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Müller et al. (2016) studied this question. Beam finite-element model of a molecular motor was evaluated. A geometrically exact beam finite-element model of a non-processive molecular motor was developed and calibrated to simulate actin-myosin motility assays and assess motor influence on biopolymer networks.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: