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Updated: Mar 28, 2026

Biophysical Characterization of Flagellar Motor Functions
Published on: January 18, 2017
Hydrodynamics Versus Intracellular Coupling in the Synchronization of Eukaryotic Flagella
Greta Quaranta1, Marie-Eve Aubin-Tam2, Daniel Tam1
1Laboratory for Aero and Hydrodynamics, Delft University of Technology, 2628CD Delft, Netherlands.
Abstract:
The influence of hydrodynamic forces on eukaryotic flagella synchronization is investigated by triggering phase locking between a controlled external flow and the flagella of C. reinhardtii. Hydrodynamic forces required for synchronization are over an order of magnitude larger than hydrodynamic forces experienced in physiological conditions. Our results suggest that synchronization is due instead to coupling through cell internal fibers connecting the flagella. This conclusion is confirmed by observations of the vfl3 mutant, with impaired mechanical connection between the flagella.
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