Reaction-Diffusion System in a Vesicle with Semi-Permeable Membrane

TL;DR

This paper models a primitive cellular metabolism using a reaction-diffusion system within a vesicle with a semi-permeable membrane, demonstrating stable nonequilibrium states maintained by selective diffusion.

Contribution

It introduces a reaction-diffusion model with a semi-permeable membrane to simulate primitive cellular metabolism, highlighting the role of differential diffusion in maintaining nonequilibrium states.

Findings

Stable nonequilibrium states are achieved inside the vesicle.

Selective diffusion through the membrane controls nutrient intake and waste removal.

The model provides insights into primitive metabolic processes.

Abstract

We study the Schloegl model in a vesicle with semi-permeable membrane. The diffusion constant takes a smaller value in the membrane region, which prevents the outflow of self-catalytic product. A nonequilibrium state is stably maintained inside of the vesicle. Nutrients are absorbed and waste materials are exhausted through the membrane by diffusion. It is interpreted as a model of primitive metabolism in a cell.