Batchelor Prize Lecture Fluid dynamics at the scale of the cell. (17th October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Goldstein, Raymond E.
• Is Part Of: Journal of fluid mechanics. Volume 807(2016:Nov.)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 39
• Publication Date: 2016-10-17
• Subjects: micro-organism dynamics, -- Stokesian dynamics, -- suspensions; Fluid mechanics -- Periodicals; 532.005
• DOI: 10.1017/jfm.2016.586
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-1120

Abstract

Abstract : The world of cellular biology provides us with many fascinating fluid dynamical phenomena that lie at the heart of physiology, development, evolution and ecology. Advances in imaging, micromanipulation and microfluidics over the past decade have made possible high-precision measurements of such flows, providing tests of microhydrodynamic theories and revealing a wealth of new phenomena calling out for explanation. Here I summarize progress in four areas within the field of 'active matter': cytoplasmic streaming in plant cells, synchronization of eukaryotic flagella, interactions between swimming cells and surfaces and collective behaviour in suspensions of microswimmers. Throughout, I emphasize open problems in which fluid dynamical methods are key ingredients in an interdisciplinary approach to the mysteries of life.