An hydrodynamic explanation of mitotic figures

Abstract

The distinctly polar arrangement of the chromatin substance about the astral centers in dividing cells, combined with the pronounced curvature of the astral rays and of the spindle fibers, have demanded the assumption of some polar force as universally operative. On such an assumption it is of course necessary to assume further that astral centers represent either opposite or like poles. On the alternative of opposite poles, we should expect, with any force so far proposed, a configuration of astral rays simulating that of iron filings between opposite magnetic poles, coupled with a mutual attraction of the astral centers. On the other alternative, we should similarly expect a configuration of astral rays and spindle fibers simulating that of iron filings between like magnetic poles, coupled with a mutual repulsion of the astral centers. Actually, we have neither of these conditions, but instead, a configuratian like that of iron filings between opposite magnetic poles and at the same time an apparent repulsion between the astral centers or the centrosomes. This is not the case with the forces of attraction or repulsion existing between bodies oscillating or pulsating in a fluid medium. More specifically, if two spheres are pulsating synchronously and in opposite phase, or oscillating synchronously and in the same phase, they will repel one another, but at the same time the field between them will simulate the configuration of iron filings between opposite magnetic poles. If then we assume that the centrosomes are pulsating in opposite phase, or better, oscillating in the same phase, we will obtain the desired repulsion and at the same time have a configuration like that actually observed.