Coarse-grained dynamics of transiently bound fast linkers

Area of Science:

• Statistical Mechanics
• Biophysics
• Physical Chemistry

Background:

• Transient bonds between fast linkers and slow particles are common in nature.
• Existing models struggle with the diverse timescales involved, often using ad hoc approximations.
• Accurate modeling requires resolving vastly different dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a mathematical justification for coarse-grained dynamics in multiscale systems.
• To ensure detailed balance is preserved in simplified models.
• To develop a broadly applicable framework for analyzing linker-particle interactions.

Main Methods:

• Multiscale averaging techniques were employed for theoretical derivation.
• Simulations of a minimal fast linker-slow particle model were used for verification.
• The framework's applicability to diverse systems was demonstrated.

Main Results:

• A rigorous mathematical basis for coarse-grained dynamics preserving detailed balance was established.
• The framework accommodates systems with multiple linkers, stiffening bonds, and slip bonds.
• Preservation of detailed balance constrains the ratio of binding to unbinding rates, not specific kinetics.

Conclusions:

• The derived coarse-grained dynamics offer a valid approach for systems with disparate timescales.
• The framework's flexibility allows application to various complex binding scenarios.
• Understanding binding kinetics is crucial for predicting macroscopic dynamics.