Surface tension gradients: feasible model for gliding motility of Myxococcus xanthus.

AUTOR(ES)

Keller, K H

RESUMO

We propose that surface tension is the driving force for the gliding motility of Myxococcus xanthus. Our model requires that the cell be able to excrete surfactant in a polar and reversible fashion. We present calculations that (i) estimate the surface tension difference across a cell necessary to move the cell at the observed rate, which is less than 10(-5) dyn/cm, an extremely small value; (ii) estimate the rate of surfactant excretion necessary to produce the required surface tension difference, a rate that we conclude to be metabolically reasonable; (iii) predict the behavior of cells moving in close apposition to each other, and show that the model is consistent with observed behavior; and (iv) predict the behavior of cells moving in dense swarms. In an accompanying paper we present experimental evidence to support the surface tension model.

Documentos Relacionados

• Experimental observations consistent with a surface tension model of gliding motility of Myxococcus xanthus.
• Effect of mechanical removal of pili on gliding motility of Myxococcus xanthus.
• Gliding movements in Myxococcus xanthus.
• Gliding Motility Mutants of Myxococcus xanthus
• Gliding motility in slide cultures of Myxococcus xanthus in stable and steep chemical gradients.