Nonequilibrium-driven motion in actin networks: comet tails and moving beads

Phys Rev Lett. 2007 Jun 8;98(23):238302. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.238302. Epub 2007 Jun 5.

Abstract

We present 3D dynamic Monte-Carlo simulations of the growth of an actin network close to an obstacle coated with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASP), an inducer of actin branching. Our simulations incorporate both elasticity and relaxation of the actin tail, thus allowing for local network compression. Whilst steady state motility derives mainly from polymerization at the leading edge, nonthermal stored elastic energy and retrograde flow are observed in a thin slab of material close to the obstacle. We observe a crossover from steady to hopping bead motion as the branching rate is decreased.

MeSH terms

  • Actins / chemistry*
  • Actins / metabolism*
  • Computer Simulation*
  • Elasticity
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Motion*
  • Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein / metabolism

Substances

  • Actins
  • Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein