ISSN:
1432-1017
Keywords:
Mechanosensitivity
;
Mechanotransduction
;
Cell membrane complex
;
Ion channels
;
Modelling of stress-sensitivity
;
Lipid matrix
;
Cytoskeleton
;
Mechano-electric phenomena
;
Flexoelectricity
;
Model membranes
;
Mechanosensors
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Physics
Notes:
Abstract Physical and biophysical mechanisms of mechano-sensitivity of cell membranes are reviewed. The possible roles of the lipid matrix and of the cytoskeleton in membrane mechanoreception are discussed. Techniques for generation of static strains and dynamic curvatures of membrane patches are considered. A unified model for stress-activated and stress-inactivated ion channels under static strains is described. A review of work on stress-sensitive pores in lipid-peptide model membranes is presented. The possible role of flexoelectricity in mechano-electric transduction, e.g. in auditory receptors is discussed. Studies of flexoelectricity in model lipid membranes, lipid-peptide membranes and natural membranes containing ion channels are reviewed. Finally, possible applications in molecular electronics of mechanosensors employing some of the recognized principles of mechano-electric transduction in natural membranes are discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00192201
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