Modeling actin-microtubule crosstalk in migrating cells.

ABSTRACT: Actin-microtubule crosstalk regulates the polarity and morphology of migrating cells and encompasses mechanical interactions, mediated by cross-linkers, molecular motors, and cytoskeletal regulators. Recent experiments indicate that local microtubule depolymerization promotes local actomyosin retraction, whereas local microtubule polymerization promotes local actin polymerization. Based on these observations, we develop a computational whole-cell model involving dynamic microtubules interacting mechanically and chemically with an active cell boundary. Specifically, the tips of microtubules send signals for local expansion or contraction to the active cell boundary, depending on whether they are in the growth or shrink phase. A rich, self-organized, dynamic behavior emerges, characterized b

SUBMITTER: Nayak P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12709440 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature