Sarah Olson, Tulane University


An integrative model of mammalian sperm motility

Abstract: Calcium (Ca2+) dynamics in mammalian sperm are directly linked to motility. These dynamics depend on diffusion, nonlinear fluxes, Ca2+ channels specific to the sperm flagellum, and other signaling molecules. The goal of this work is to couple Ca2+ dynamics to a mechanical model of a motile sperm within a viscous, incompressible fluid. We will present recent progress on elements of this integrative model.

Collaborators: Susan Suarez (Cornell University), Lisa Fauci (Tulane University)