Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 1 of 1
Full-Text Articles in Life Sciences
Using A Mathematical Model Of Cadherin-Based Adhesion To Understand The Function Of The Actin Cytoskeleton, J. C. Dallon, Elijah Newren, Marc Hansen
Using A Mathematical Model Of Cadherin-Based Adhesion To Understand The Function Of The Actin Cytoskeleton, J. C. Dallon, Elijah Newren, Marc Hansen
Faculty Publications
The actin cytoskeleton plays a role in cell-cell adhesion but its specific function is not clear. Actin might anchor cadherins or drive membrane protrusions in order to facilitate cell-cell adhesion. Using a mathematical model of the forces involved in cadherin-based adhesion we investigate its possible functions. The immersed boundary method is used to model the cell membrane and cortex with cadherin binding forces added as linear springs. The simulations indicate that cells in suspension can develop normal cell-cell contacts without actin-based cadherin anchoring or membrane protrusions. The cadherins can be fixed in the membrane or free to move and the …