Chemical amplifier, self-ignition mechanism, and amoeboid cell migration

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Abstract
The signal transduction chain of amoeboid migrating cells, such as human granulocytes, is approximated. Only the mean concentration of intracellular messenger molecules is considered. The weak cellular input signal originating from membrane-bound receptors occupied by molecules that stimulate migration steers a large flux of energy and mass. The strong second intracellular signal is produced by a chemical amplifier. Several functions are performed by this second intracellular signal: (i) the activation of the microfilaments (linear motor), (ii) the renewal of the membrane-bound receptors, and (iii) the alteration of the input characteristics of the chemical amplifier. The rate equation for the second messenger is derived. The solution of this machine equation is compared with experimental results. The chemokinetic dose-response curve, as well as a machine cycle, are predicted. A threshold concentration of the migration-stimulating molecules is predicted. At high concentrations, the cells are in an activated state with self-maintained oscillations of the second intracellular messenger, and at low concentrations, the cells are in an inactivated state without oscillations. The migration-stimulated cells are compared to a laser.