Hydrodynamics Versus Intracellular Coupling in the Synchronization of Eukaryotic Flagella

Journal article (2015)
Department
Process and Energy (Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2015 American Physical Society
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Published Date

30-11-2015

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Source:

Physical Review Letters, 115 (23), 2015

ISSN:

0031-9007

Faculty

Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

Department

Process and Energy

Abstract

The influence of hydrodynamic forces on eukaryotic flagella synchronization is investigated by triggering phase locking between a controlled external flow and the flagella of C. reinhardtii. Hydrodynamic forces required for synchronization are over an order of magnitude larger than hydrodynamic forces experienced in physiological conditions. Our results suggest that synchronization is due instead to coupling through cell internal fibers connecting the flagella. This conclusion is confirmed by observations of the vfl3 mutant, with impaired mechanical connection between the flagella.

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