Aggregation-fragmentation model of robust concentration gradient formation

TL;DR

This paper presents a theoretical aggregation-fragmentation model explaining how clustering of signaling molecules can produce stable concentration gradients in biological systems, applicable to subcellular patterns like in fission yeast.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel cluster-mediated gradient formation model based on Becker-Doring equations, highlighting its robustness and biological relevance.

Findings

Model produces stable gradients under realistic conditions

Clustering does not overly stabilize signaling molecules

Applicable to pom1p gradient in fission yeast

Abstract

Concentration gradients of signaling molecules are essential for patterning during development and they have been observed in both unicellular and multicellular systems. In subcellular systems, clustering of the signaling molecule has been observed. We develop a theoretical model of cluster- mediated concentration gradient formation based on the Becker-Doring equations of aggregation- fragmentation processes. We show that such a mechanism produces robust concentration gradients on realistic time and spatial scales so long as the process of clustering does not significantly stabilize the signaling molecule. Finally, we demonstrate that such a model is applicable to the pom1p subcellular gradient in fission yeast.