Frequency-associated transition from single-cell asynchronous motion to monotonic growth

J Biol Phys. 2017 Dec;43(4):461-470. doi: 10.1007/s10867-017-9462-7. Epub 2017 Sep 12.

Abstract

This paper presents a Fourier analysis of the Ortega equation that examines the growth dynamics of plants, specifically the pollen tubes or non-meristematic zones of elongating coleoptiles. A frequency-induced transition from highly nonlinear (periodical) growth-like the one observed in pollen tubes-to monotonically ascending and asymptotically saturated (sigmoid-like) growth, which is anticipated within the framework of a 'two-fluid model', is shown. A dynamic phase diagram is calculated and presented in the form of a live video clip.

Keywords: Coleoptile; Fourier analysis; Growth dynamics; Phase diagram; Pollen tube.

MeSH terms

  • Cell Movement*
  • Fourier Analysis
  • Models, Biological*
  • Plant Cells / metabolism
  • Plant Development*
  • Pollen Tube / cytology
  • Pollen Tube / growth & development