Regensburg 2007 – scientific programme

Parts | Days | Selection | Search | Downloads | Help

BP: Fachverband Biologische Physik

BP 5: Cell Adhesion

BP 5.1: Invited Talk

Monday, March 26, 2007, 10:30–11:00, H44

Force induced strengthening of binding domains in specifically adhered vesicles — •Ana-Suncana Smith — II. Institutut für Theoretische Physik,Universität Stuttgart

Specific adhesion between ligand-containing vesicles and receptor-functionalized substrates is an established model system for studying the initial stages of the cell recognition process and its control mechanisms. In order to provide a better understanding of the underlying physics emerging from recent experiments, and to allow for quantitative exploitation of this system, we develop a theoretical framework that accounts for the equilibrium state of adhesion. Therein, the macroscopic and microscopic aspects of the problem are successfully merged. Several mechanisms that control adhesion or induce de-adhesion are studied at the same level of theory. Particular attention is given to the problem of an externally applied force. In response to pulling, we predict passive strengthening of the adhesion, with the latter effect being significantly enhanced by the mobility of both binding partners.