Theoretical models of lipid vesicles migrating through channels
Disciplines
Biological and Chemical Physics
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Self-propelled microrobots have the potential for use as carriers and probes in narrow channels and mechanisms for intense study of isolated proteins and cellular channels. They can potentially act as drug carriers and alleviators of medicinal side effects, but their functionality depends on their deformation and mobility. In this work, we develop theoretical models to quantify vesicle deformation through a solid channel and observe its deformation. We used Solid Mechanics in COMSOL Multiphysics version 5.5 for numerical simulation where a double-layered ring with interior pressure passes through a tight channel. We use contact methods to establish the Physics of the model. In the model, a constant boundary load is applied to the inside of the ring to simulate a fluid-filled vesicle. We then aim to quantify our results and investigate some parametric sweep values to further understand the functionality of vesicles. Then, the models can be used to understand the physical mechanisms that govern cell migration through tight spaces, such as interstitial spaces and channels. This information is vital to the successful creation of microbots and the study of cell migration as a field.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
SPCEET - Mechanical Engineering
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Yizeng Li
Theoretical models of lipid vesicles migrating through channels
Self-propelled microrobots have the potential for use as carriers and probes in narrow channels and mechanisms for intense study of isolated proteins and cellular channels. They can potentially act as drug carriers and alleviators of medicinal side effects, but their functionality depends on their deformation and mobility. In this work, we develop theoretical models to quantify vesicle deformation through a solid channel and observe its deformation. We used Solid Mechanics in COMSOL Multiphysics version 5.5 for numerical simulation where a double-layered ring with interior pressure passes through a tight channel. We use contact methods to establish the Physics of the model. In the model, a constant boundary load is applied to the inside of the ring to simulate a fluid-filled vesicle. We then aim to quantify our results and investigate some parametric sweep values to further understand the functionality of vesicles. Then, the models can be used to understand the physical mechanisms that govern cell migration through tight spaces, such as interstitial spaces and channels. This information is vital to the successful creation of microbots and the study of cell migration as a field.