Modal Analysis of Respiratory Cilia

Abstract

The mucociliary system is an important part of the respiratory defense system. The respiratory cilia are distributed on the surface of the epithelial cells. The cilia provide power to the mucus through asymmetric periodic beat, thus particles and other impurities attached to mucus will be pushed to the throat to achieve clearance. Understanding the structure and function of cilia has implications for the diagnosis and treatment of related diseases Existing experimental studies have been able to observe the ultrastructure of the respiratory cilia, but research on the inherent mechanical properties of cilia are rare. Through the modal analysis of respiratory cilia, the inherent characteristics of the natural frequency and modal shape of the respiratory cilia were clarified. And the validity of the modal analysis was proved by comparison with the morphological characteristics of the respiratory cilia during different periods. By studying the biomechanical properties of cilia is helpful for the research of ciliary movement mechanism and provides reference for it.