The Cell as a Machine

Description

This unique introductory text explains cell functions using the engineering principles of robust devices. Adopting a process-based approach to understanding cell and tissue biology, it describes the molecular and mechanical features that enable the cell to be robust in operating its various components, and explores the ways in which molecular modules respond to environmental signals to execute complex functions. The design and operation of a variety of complex functions are covered, including engineering lipid bilayers to provide fluid boundaries and mechanical controls, adjusting cell shape and forces with dynamic filament networks, and DNA packaging for information retrieval and propagation. Numerous problems, case studies and application examples help readers connect theory with practice, and solutions for instructors and videos of lectures accompany the book online. Assuming only basic mathematical knowledge, this is an invaluable resource for graduate and senior undergraduate students taking single-semester courses in cell mechanics, biophysics and cell biology. Contents Preface and acknowledgments PART I PRINCIPLES OF COMPLEX FUNCTIONS IN ROBUST MACHINES 1 Robust Self-replicating Machines Shaped by Evolution 2 Complex Functions of Robust Machines with Emergent Properties 3 Integrated Complex Functions with Dynamic Feedback 4 Cells Exhibit Multiple States, Each with Different Functions 5 Life at Low Reynolds Number and the Mesoscale Leads to Stochastic Phenomena PART II DESIGN AND OPERATION OF COMPLEX FUNCTIONS 6 Engineering Lipid Bilayers to Provide Fluid Boundaries and Mechanical Controls 7 Membrane Trafficking: Flow and Barriers Create Asymmetries 8 Signaling and Cell Volume Control through Ion Transport and Volume Regulators 9 Structuring a Cell by Cytoskeletal Filaments 10 Moving and Maintaining Functional Assemblies with Motors 11 Microenvironment Controls Life, Death, and Regeneration 12 Adjusting Cell Shape and Forces with Dynamic Filament Networks 13 DNA Packaging for Information Retrieval and Propagation 14 Transcribing the Right Information and Packaging for Delivery 15 Turning RNA into Functional Proteins and Removing Unwanted Proteins PART III COORDINATION OF COMPLEX FUNCTIONS 16 How to Approach a Coordinated Function: Cell Rigidity-sensing and Force Generation across Length Scales 17 Integration of Cellular Functions for Decision Making 18 Moving from Omnipotency to Death 19 Cancer versus Regeneration: The Wrong versus Right Response to the Microenvironment Index