Movie 1:
Self-organization in the narrow elongated fragment as predicted
by the 1-D model. Initially homogeneous granule density is shown
at the top, and the length densities of MTs, calculated
analytically, are shown in the middle and bottom. When dynein is
stimulated, the granules aggregate to the center of the fragment,
while the MT length density evolves into the shape demonstrating
that most MTs have their minus and plus ends stabilized at the
center and edges of the fragment, respectively.
Movie 2:
Same as in movie 1, but now the length densities of MTs have
three maxima in the fragment. The simulations show that, first,
three local pigment aggregates emerge, which then merge into two
transient aggregates, and finally, into one aggregate at the
center of the fragment.
Movie 3:
In the nascent fragment, initially the granules are distributed
uniformly, while all MTs are oriented in the same way, with their
minus ends at the left, and their plus ends at the right. Rapidly,
the granules aggregate near the left edge of the fragment. The
aggregate shifts slightly toward the center, but stops far from
it. The MTs organize into the aster with their minus ends embedded
in the fragment.
Movie 4:
Self-organization in the square fragment as predicted by the
2-D model. Initially, the granule density is homogeneous
(illustrated by shading, such that darker shade corresponds to
greater density), and MTs (with thin minus ends and thick plus
ends) are distributed randomly. When dynein is stimulated, the
granules aggregate into few local aggregates subsequently merging
into the single aggregate. Then, MTs with the minus ends away from
the aggregate treadmill toward the boundary and disappear, and the
MT aster emerges.
Movie 5:
Aggregation of the pigment granules as observed in two
fragments of different sizes and shapes.
Movie 6:
Aggregation of the pigment granules as observed in the bi-lobed
fragment.
Movie 7:
Computer simulated aggregation of the pigment granules and MT aster
formation in the bi-lobed fragment.