Mathematical Model for Rhythmic Protoplasmic Movement in the True Slime Mold

摘要: The plasmodium of the true slime mold Physarum polycephalum is a large amoeboid organism that displays "smart" behavior such as chemotaxis and ability to solve mazes geometrical puzzles. These behaviors are based on dynamics viscoelastic protoplasm its biochemical rhythms. By incorporating both these aspects, we constructed mathematical model for first step towards understanding relation between protoplasmic movement unusual abilities. We tested validity by comparing it with physiological observation. Our reproduces fundamental characteristics spatio-temporal pattern rhythmic movement: (1) antiphase oscillation frontal tip rear when front freely extending; (2) asynchronous not (3) formation mounds over longer time scale. Both our observation suggest cell stiffness plays primary role in plasmodial behaviors, contrast conventional theory coupled oscillator systems.