Cell mechanics: filaminA leads the way.
Actin filaments are thought to be the major structural components of most eukaryotic cells, but reconstituted actin networks have yet to account for the remarkable strength exhibited by cellular networks. A new study has found that reconstituted networks that include the cross-linker filaminA can replicate many of the mechanical properties of cells if they are stressed prior to mechanical measurement.
McGrath
James L
JL
Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, PO Box 639, Rochester, New York 14450, USA. jmcgrath@bme.rochester.edu