Electrotaxis

Electrotaxis, also called galvanotaxis, is the directed movement of cells in response to an electric field. The phenomenon has been observed in bacteria, yeasts, amoebae, and many animal cells, including keratocytes, fibroblasts, neutrophils, and epithelial cells. In experimental systems, a DC electric field is applied across a culture chamber, and cells orient and migrate toward a particular electrode depending on their type and state. Endogenous electric fields also arise in living tissues, most notably at wound sites, where they can contribute to directed cell recruitment during healing.

Mechanisms involve the sensing of electric fields by the cell membrane and cytoskeleton. Electric fields can cause redistribution of charged membrane components and voltage-sensitive signaling molecules, bias the localization of receptors and cytoskeletal regulators, and polarize signaling networks such as PI3K/Akt and Rho GTPases, leading to the formation of a leading edge and directed migration.

Directionality depends on cell type; many mammalian cells migrate toward the cathode, but some move toward the anode. Field strength, exposure duration, substrate properties, and cell differentiation affect the response. Electrotactic responses can occur via electrotaxis (directional) rather than electrokinesis (enhanced random movement).

Applications and significance: Understanding electrotaxis informs wound-healing biology and tissue engineering, and can be used to influence cell migration in culture and in vivo. Researchers study signaling pathways and mechanotransduction that transduce electrical cues into movement. Limitations include variability between cell types and challenges translating in vitro findings to intact tissues.