Nonlinear dynamics and self-organization of rotary molecular motor ensembles

Abstract

The coupled nonlinear dynamics of rotary motor ensembles and an embedding fluid medium are simulated on the basis of Navier-Stokes equations. The model description considers space-dependent rotation of motors and a spatially inhomogeneous motor distribution as well as spatial fluctuations in molecular properties. The mutual influnce of motor rotations and fluid dynamics as well as spatial inhomogeneities of their molecular properties are self-consistently included. Space-time simulations visualize the complex interplay between the fluid dynamics and motor rotation and show that the dynamic coupling to the environment via the velocity field as well as the spatial inhomogeneity and distribution of rotors determines the overall behavior of the motor complex. Depending on the initial molecular distribution, rotation frequency, and fluid dynamics a spatial self-organization or a chaotic behavior may arise. © 2006 The American Physical Society.