Two-component model of a microtubule in a semi-discrete approximation

Abstract: In the present work, we study the nonlinear dynamics of a microtubule, an important part of the cytoskeleton. We use a two-component model of the relevant system. A crucial nonlinear differential equation is solved with semi-discrete approximation, yielding some localised modulated solitary waves called the breathers. A detailed estimation of the existing parameters is provided. The numerical investigation shows that the solutions are robust only if the carrier velocity of the breather wave is higher than its envelope velocity. That disproves the previously accepted solutions based on the equality of these velocities.