Shear Stress Transmission Model for the Flagellar Rotary Motor
2008
Model of the Flagellar Rotary Motor
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Mitsui Toshio, Ohshima Hiroyuki
Hypothesis
The flagellar rotary motor operates as a four-variable system where strain, stress, electric field, and polarization interact.
Conclusion
The model successfully explains the mechanism of flagellar rotation driven by proton flux and shear stress.
Supporting Evidence
- Protons passing through the motor create a strong electric field that induces shear stress.
- The model predicts that flagellar rotation direction remains the same when proton passage direction is reversed.
- Experimental observations support the model's predictions about torque and rotation velocity.
- The model explains the relationship between temperature and flagellar motor performance.
Takeaway
Bacteria use a tiny motor to spin their tails, which helps them swim, and this motor works by using protons to create a force that makes it turn.
Methodology
Theoretical modeling and comparison with experimental observations.
Limitations
The model may not account for all complexities of the flagellar motor's operation.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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