A lumped parameter model of endoplasm flow in Physarum polycephalum explains migration and polarization-induced asymmetry during the onset of locomotion.

ABSTRACT: The plasmodial slime mold Physarum polycephalum exhibits strong, periodic flow of cytoplasm through the veins of its network. In the special case of mesoplasmodia, a newly described starvation-induced, shape-constant morphotype, this periodic endoplasm streaming is the basis of locomotion. Furthermore, we presume that cytoplasm flow is also involved in signal transmission and signal processing. Mesoplasmodia motility resembles amoeboid locomotion. In contrast to other amoebae, however, mesoplasmodia move without extending pseudopods and retain a coherent, fan-shaped morphology throughout their steady locomotion. Attaining sizes of up to 2 mm2, mesoplasmodia are also much bigger than other amoebae. We characterize this particular type of locomotion and identify patterns of movement. By usin

SUBMITTER: Oettmeier C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6478327 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature