Physicochemical simulation of cell-cell commutation

Bull Exp Biol Med. 2012 Mar;152(5):571-4. doi: 10.1007/s10517-012-1577-z.
[Article in English, Russian]

Abstract

Strings, anisometric structures with length-diameter ratio of 10(1)-10(5) are formed in some homochiral solutions at a concentration of 10(-3)-10(-2) M. We studied macroscopic properties of strings (strength, charge at the ends, etc.) and showed that these strings can provide a power commutation of cells. The strength and electrostatic driving force of the strings are sufficient to transport cells with a velocity of app. 1 cm/sec. The formation of strings is a mechanism of directional and error-resistant information exchange and for intercellular distances it is faster and more efficient by substance utilization than the diffusion mechanism. This suggests that strings or similar objects, including cytonemes, play an important role in various aspects of cell-cell commutation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomimetic Materials / chemistry*
  • Cell Communication
  • Diffusion
  • Gels / chemistry*
  • Isomerism
  • Microscopy
  • Models, Biological
  • Solutions / chemistry*
  • Static Electricity

Substances

  • Gels
  • Solutions