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Cell sorting in three dimensions: topology, fluctuations, and fluidlike instabilities
M Shane Hutson1, G Wayne Brodland, Justina Yang
1Department of Physics, Vanderbilt Institute for Integrative Biosystem Research & Education, Vanderbilt University, Station B 351807, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, USA. shane.hutson@vanderbilt.edu
Physical Review Letters
|October 15, 2008
Summary
Cell sorting in 3D differs from 2D models. New research shows 3D cell sorting involves topological untangling and domain coalescence, with untangling driven by high tension, not requiring fluctuations.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Previous models suggested cell sorting necessitates cytoskeletal fluctuations and is hindered by high interfacial tension.
- These models were primarily based on 2D and limited 3D simulations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms of cell sorting in 3D environments using novel modeling approaches.
- To determine if cytoskeletal fluctuations and low tension are universally required for cell sorting in three dimensions.
Main Methods:
- Development of new deterministic and stochastic computational models for 3D cell sorting.
- Analysis of the roles of topological untangling and domain coalescence in the sorting process.
- Investigation of the influence of interfacial tension and cell fractions on sorting dynamics.
Main Results:
- 3D cell sorting is achieved through a combination of topological untangling and domain coalescence.
- Domain coalescence requires fluctuations and low tension.
- Topological untangling, driven by high tension via Plateau-Rayleigh instability, does not require fluctuations.
- Significant partial sorting can occur without fluctuations, particularly at high minority-cell fractions.
Conclusions:
- The requirements for cell sorting differ significantly between 2D and 3D environments.
- High tension can deterministically drive cell sorting through topological untangling in 3D, challenging previous assumptions.
- Fluctuations are not essential for all aspects of 3D cell sorting, specifically for the untangling mechanism.
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