Autowave mechanisms of transport in living tubes

Abstract

In this chapter we consider a class of AW mechanisms in biology which effect fluid transfer inside a tube and are completely or partially caused by changes in the shape of the tube. Such a fluid transfer is called a peristaltic current and its objective is the transport and/or mixing of the fluid. In the first case the change in the shape of the tube usually has the character of a travelling wave, while in the second more complex wave processes take place. Technical examples of peristaltic systems are for instance various roll pumps used in devices for artificial blood circulation or for precise dosage. Biological examples are the organs of the gastrointestinal tract (oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon), the ureter, myometer, some bloodvessels and other organs with smooth muscle tissue as well as small transport veins in plants or even unicellular organisms.