Cell Mechanics and Mechanobiology.

Catalog description

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Prerequisite: BIOL 300 or EGRB 111 with a minimum grade of C, or by permission of the instructor. Focusing on cellular-extracellular matrix interactions, students will gain a quantitative understanding of the way cells detect, modify and respond to the physical properties within the cell environment. Coverage includes the mechanics of single-molecule polymers, polymer networks, two-dimensional membranes, whole-cell mechanics and mechanobiology. Mechanobiology topics include cancer and development, pulmonary system, cardiovascular system, and the nervous system. Students will gain understanding of techniques in cellular manipulation and quantification of cellular forces.