Deformation of cross-linked semiflexible polymer networks.
Networks of filamentous proteins play a crucial role in cell mechanics. These cytoskeletal networks, together with various cross-linking and other associated proteins largely determine the (visco)elastic response of cells. In this Letter we study a model system of cross-linked, stiff filaments in order to explore the connection between the microstructure under strain and the macroscopic response of cytoskeletal networks. We find two distinct regimes as a function primarily of cross-link density and filament rigidity: one characterized by affine deformation and one by nonaffine deformation. We characterize the crossover between these two.
Head
David A
DA
Division of Physics & Astronomy, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Levine
Alex J
AJ
MacKintosh
F C
FC
D001704:Biopolymers / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000502:physiology; D003598:Cytoskeletal Proteins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D003599:Cytoskeleton / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D004548:Elasticity; D008956:Models, Chemical; D014783:Viscosity
D001704:Biopolymers; D003598:Cytoskeletal Proteins