Glassy Dynamics in Dense Active Matter - From Cells to Particles

Explore a physics seminar that delves into the fascinating world of glassy dynamics in dense active matter, examining both cellular systems and particle behavior. Learn about the fundamental principles of glass transitions in liquids, their transformation into disordered solids, and how these concepts apply to living matter. Discover how cells demonstrate glass-like properties and their connection to various diseases and developmental processes. Follow the investigation of cell collectives through the lens of active glassy fluids, using minimal-model approaches and active Brownian particles. Understand the nonmonotonic dynamics observed in these systems, the significance of cage length, and how different active matter models and particle properties influence behavior. Gain insights into the reconciliation of varying approaches found in scientific literature, all presented through a comprehensive analysis of both biological and physical perspectives on glassy dynamics.

Syllabus

Intro
The glass transition: from liquid to disordered solid
Ubiquitous examples
What happens when approaching a glass transition
Conceptual explanation: cage effect
What about the glass transition in living matter?
Cells exhibit glass-like behavior
Glassy behavior linked to diseases and development
Can we understand cell collective as a 'simple' glassy fluid?
Minimal-model approach: treat cells as an active glassy fluid
'Simpler' active glassy systems
Model active fluid: active Brownian particles
Nonmonotonic dynamics
Curves collapse!
Why is the maximum at the cage length?
Only the length scale changes
What if we change the active matter model?
What if we make particles softer?
Insight reconciles different departures in literature!