A minimal actomyosin-based model predicts the dynamics of filopodia on neuronal dendrites.

ABSTRACT: Dendritic filopodia are actin-filled dynamic subcellular structures that sprout on neuronal dendrites during neurogenesis. The exploratory motion of the filopodia is crucial for synaptogenesis, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. To study filopodial motility, we collected and analyzed image data on filopodia in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. We hypothesized that mechanical feedback among the actin retrograde flow, myosin activity, and substrate adhesion gives rise to various filopodial behaviors. We formulated a minimal one-dimensional partial differential equation model that reproduced the range of observed motility. To validate our model, we systematically manipulated experimental correlates of parameters in the model: substrate adhesion strength, actin polymerization

SUBMITTER: Marchenko OO 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5391179 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature