On the coupling of mechanics with bioelectricity and its role in morphogenesis

Alessandro Leronni, Lorenzo Bardella, Luis Dorfmann, Alexis Pietak, Michael Levin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

The role of endogenous bioelectricity in morphogenesis has recently been explored through the finite volume-based code BioElectric Tissue Simulation Engine. We extend this platform to electrostatic and osmotic forces due to bioelectrical ion fluxes, causing cell cluster deformation. We further account for mechanosensitive ion channels, which, gated by membrane tension, modulate ion fluxes and, ultimately, bioelectrical forces. We illustrate the potentialities of this combined model of actuation and sensing with reference to cancer progression, osmoregulation, symmetry breaking and long-range signalling. This suggests control strategies for the manipulation of cell networks in vivo.
Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 24 Jun 2020

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'On the coupling of mechanics with bioelectricity and its role in morphogenesis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this