z-logo
open-access-imgOpen Access
Physical forces modulate cell differentiation and proliferation processes
Author(s) -
Schwartz Laurent,
Veiga Moreira Jorgelindo,
Jolicoeur Mario
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
journal of cellular and molecular medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.44
H-Index - 130
eISSN - 1582-4934
pISSN - 1582-1838
DOI - 10.1111/jcmm.13417
Subject(s) - cellular differentiation , biology , cell , cell metabolism , process (computing) , mitochondrion , intracellular , microbiology and biotechnology , complement (music) , cell growth , computational biology , neuroscience , genetics , gene , computer science , phenotype , operating system , complementation
Currently, the predominant hypothesis explains cellular differentiation and behaviour as an essentially genetically driven intracellular process, suggesting a gene‐centrism paradigm. However, although many living species genetic has now been described, there is still a large gap between the genetic information interpretation and cell behaviour prediction. Indeed, the physical mechanisms underlying the cell differentiation and proliferation, which are now known or suspected to guide such as the flow of energy through cells and tissues, have been often overlooked. We thus here propose a complementary conceptual framework towards the development of an energy‐oriented classification of cell properties, that is, a mitochondria‐centrism hypothesis based on physical forces‐driven principles. A literature review on the physical–biological interactions in a number of various biological processes is analysed from the point of view of the fluid and solid mechanics, electricity and thermodynamics. There is consistent evidence that physical forces control cell proliferation and differentiation. We propose that physical forces interfere with the cell metabolism mostly at the level of the mitochondria, which in turn control gene expression. The present perspective points towards a paradigm shift complement in biology.

The content you want is available to Zendy users.

Already have an account? Click here to sign in.
Having issues? You can contact us here