How Signaling Cascades Affect Signal Speed in Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Govern Christopher C., Chakraborty Arup K.
Primary Institution: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Hypothesis
Cascades can either speed up or slow down the propagation of signals through space depending on their kinetics.
Conclusion
Cascades can modulate signal speed, enhancing penetration into cells without needing large amounts of signaling molecules.
Supporting Evidence
- Cascades operating far from saturation speed up signal propagation.
- Cascades under zero-order ultrasensitivity can slow down signals, localizing them to regions around the origin.
- The speed of signal propagation is influenced by the kinetics of the signaling cascade.
Takeaway
This study shows that some signals can travel faster in cells because of special chains of reactions, while others can slow down and stay close to where they started.
Methodology
The study used deterministic reaction-diffusion equations to model signaling cascades under different kinetic conditions.
Limitations
The model neglects many important effects, such as the influence of scaffolds and feedback regulation.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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