Percolation model for enzyme gel degradation

Phys Rev Lett. 2004 Nov 26;93(22):228301. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.93.228301. Epub 2004 Nov 22.

Abstract

We study a model for the gel degradation by an enzyme, where the gel is schematized as a cubic lattice, and the enzyme as a random walker, that cuts the bonds over which it passes. The model undergoes a (reverse) percolation transition, which for low density of enzymes falls in a universality class different from random percolation. In particular, we have measured a gel fraction critical exponent beta=1.0+/-0.1, in excellent agreement with experiments made on the real system.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biodegradation, Environmental
  • Computer Simulation
  • Diffusion
  • Enzyme Activation
  • Enzymes / chemistry*
  • Extracellular Matrix / chemistry*
  • Gels / chemistry*
  • Models, Biological*
  • Models, Chemical*
  • Substrate Specificity

Substances

  • Enzymes
  • Gels