Authors:

Laurel Patterson

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About Paper:

The outgrowth of neurites, projections from the cell body of a neuron, plays a fundamental role in shaping the intricate neural circuits of the brain. Neurite outgrowth is driven by mechanical forces generated by interactions between proteins. Previous experimental studies have identified key factors involved in neurite outgrowth, including a microtubule motor protein called dynein. However, it remains elusive how each factor affects neurite outgrowth due to the intrinsic complexity of biological growth systems and the limitations of experiments. In our study, we employed a computational model consisting of minimal components to explore the mechanism of neurite outgrowth. The model successfully reproduces the neurite outgrowth process against resistant forces. By systematically altering various biophysical factors, we studied how neurite outgrowth is enhanced or suppressed. We observed that increases in the concentration, length, and rigidity of microtubules, cross-linking dissociation rate, and motor density led to a faster outgrowth rate. In addition, a decrease in the resistant force resulted in faster neurite outgrowth. In future studies, we will investigate the impact of microtubule dynamics on neurite outgrowth.

Source:

Purdue University / 2023

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Co-authors:

Laurel Patterson