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Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Biophysical Characterization of Flagellar Motor Functions
Published on: January 18, 2017
Shear stress transmission model for the flagellar rotary motor
Toshio Mitsui1, Hiroyuki Ohshima2
1Nakasuji-Yamate 3-6-24, Takarazuka, 665-0875, Japan.
Abstract:
Most bacteria that swim are propelled by flagellar filaments, which are driven by a rotary motor powered by proton flux. The mechanism of the flagellar motor is discussed by reforming the model proposed by the present authors in 2005. It is shown that the mean strength of Coulomb field produced by a proton passing the channel is very strong in the Mot assembly so that the Mot assembly can be a shear force generator and induce the flagellar rotation. The model gives clear calculation results in agreement with experimental observations, e g., for the characteristic torque-velocity relationship of the flagellar rotation.
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