Cell Movement

Cell movement, also known as cell motility or migration, is a fundamental biological process essential for development, immune response, wound healing, and tissue maintenance in multicellular organisms. It involves the coordinated action of cellular structures and signaling pathways that enable cells to move from one location to another. The primary drivers of cell movement are the cytoskeletal proteins actin and myosin. Actin polymerization at the leading edge of the cell pushes the membrane forward, while myosin motor proteins generate contractile forces that pull the rest of the cell body ahead. Microtubules play a supporting role by acting as structural "struts" that help retract the trailing edge and maintain directionality during migration. Cell movement is regulated by complex networks involving receptor proteins on membranes sensing external cues (chemical gradients, mechanical signals). These pathways establish polarity within migrating cells—defining distinct leading (protrusive) and trailing (contractile) ends—and coordinate localized activity for efficient directional movement. Movement can be triggered or modulated by various stimuli like chemical gradients, mechanical stiffness, temperature, and electric fields.

Other names

Cell MotilityCell Migration