Mechanochemical self-organization determines search pattern in migratory cells

To reach their destination, migrating cells rely on polarized signal inputs to align the direction of their motion. However, navigational guidance cues are not always present, which establishes the need for exploratory search mechanisms in cells seeking signal inputs. Here, we investigate how non-Brownian search patterns emerge in adherent vertebrate cells. Combining experimental and theoretical analysis, we demonstrate that nanoscale plasma membrane deformations nucleate a mechanochemical feedback loop that mediates longevity of the cell’s leading edge, a necessary requirement for directed cell migration. We further observe stochastic transitions between phases of random and persistent cell motion, whereby the mechanochemical circuit augments cell persistence and search area. Collectively, these findings are consistent with a self-organizing system for a superdiffusive pattern of motion that is spontaneously employed by migratory cells in the absence of external signal inputs.