Mechanics of the Cell
Cambridge University Press
Edition: 2, 11/30/2011
EAN 9780521113762, ISBN10: 0521113768
Hardcover, 712 pages, 25.3 x 19.5 x 3.1 cm
Language: English
Exploring the mechanical features of biological cells, including their architecture and stability, this textbook is a pedagogical introduction to the interdisciplinary fields of cell mechanics and soft matter physics from both experimental and theoretical perspectives. This second edition has been greatly updated and expanded, with new chapters on complex filaments, the cell division cycle, the mechanisms of control and organization in the cell, and fluctuation phenomena. The textbook is now in full color which enhances the diagrams and allows the inclusion of new microscopy images. With around 280 end-of-chapter exercises exploring further applications, this textbook is ideal for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in physics and biomedical engineering. A website hosted by the author contains extra support material, diagrams and lecture notes, and is available at www.cambridge.org/Boal.
Preface
List of symbols
1. Introduction to the cell
2. Soft materials and fluids
Part I. Rods and Ropes
3. Polymers
4. Complex filaments
5. Two-dimensional networks
6. Three-dimensional networks
Part II. Membranes
7. Biomembranes
8. Membrane undulations
9. Intermembrane and electrostatic forces
Part III. The Whole Cell
10. Structure of the simplest cells
11. Dynamic filaments
12. Growth and division
13. Signals and switches
Appendixes
Glossary
References
Index.
Reviews of the first edition: 'In Mechanics of the Cell David Boal explains the mechanical properties of the biopolymers found within cells ... for graduate students in the general field and for biotechnologists required to consider added dimensions to their work it represents a comprehensive text that ought to make it a standard reference for many years.' Ian Jones, Chemistry in Britain