Abstract
An important aspect of the analysis of the proliferation of cell populations as composed of a set of intercommunicating logistic domains is the nature of the barriers between adjacent domains and the regulation of cellular migration between them. The nature of these inter-domain boundaries is discussed in relation to the central role of L-type calcium channels in the control of cell motility and it is proposed that domain boundaries are determined by proteoglycans which act as calcium chelators and hence regulate the local extracellular Ca<sup>++</sup> concentration. The selective migratory advantage gained by overexpression of calcium channels is briefly alluded to.
Highlights
In this brief communication the possibility that these barriers might consist of proteoglycans is explored in connection with their possible interference with cell migration
In order to migrate cells need to adhere to the extracellular matrix by localised traction points through which mechanical force exerted by cytoskeletal elements can bring about movement
The focal adhesion kinase, which is instrumental in producing myosin contraction of the cytoskeleton, is calcium-dependent, possibly through the activating phosphorylation pathway [8]
Summary
A possible analytical approach to modelling the growth of cell populations is to consider the microenvironment in which they exist as composed of a set of adjacent autonomous virtual domains logistically limited by the local nutrient supply and other essential resources [1]. To take account of considerations of tissue architecture it is proposed that there are defined barriers to migration that limit the extent to which cells are able to move between domains. In this brief communication the possibility that these barriers might consist of proteoglycans is explored in connection with their possible interference with cell migration
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