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Cell biophysical stimuli in lobopodium formation: a computer based approach
Francisco Serrano-Alcalde1, José Manuel García-Aznar1, María José Gómez-Benito1
1Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering
|October 28, 2020
Summary
Lobopodia-based cell migration in 3D matrices depends on extracellular matrix properties. Simulations reveal two mechanotransduction pathways regulating cell migration modes, influenced by matrix elasticity and internal cell pressure.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Cells migrate in 3D environments using various modes like lamellipodia and blebs.
- Lobopodia-based migration is a recently identified mode occurring in 3D matrices under specific conditions.
- This migration involves a protrusion enabling nuclear passage and creating pressure differences within the cell.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the mechanical conditions favoring lobopodia-based cell migration.
- To investigate the role of extracellular matrix mechanical properties (linear vs. non-linear elasticity) in cell migration mode selection.
- To identify potential mechanotransduction mechanisms regulating the switch between lobopodial and lamellipodial migration.
Main Methods:
- Development of a finite element model to simulate cell migration.
- Analysis of cell behavior in both linearly and non-linearly elastic extracellular matrices.
- Investigation of hydrostatic pressure and fluid flow dynamics within the cell and matrix.
Main Results:
- Identified two distinct mechanotransduction mechanisms that can regulate the switch from lobopodial to lamellipodial migration.
- The first mechanism involves differential pressure increase within the cytoplasm during cell contraction.
- The second mechanism involves a change in fluid flow direction, dependent on matrix non-linear elasticity.
Conclusions:
- Extracellular matrix mechanical properties are crucial in determining cell migration modes.
- The biphasic nature of the cell mediates distinct migration behaviors in different elastic matrices.
- Mechanotransduction pathways involving internal pressure and fluid flow dynamics regulate cell migration strategies.
