The physical and chemical basis for the mechanical properties and activities of living cells considered from an engineering perspective. The instructional approach emphasizes in-depth study of a limited number of cases and relies heavily on selected readings from the literature. Topics studied include cell adhesion and elasticity of red cells as well as phenomena in which active motility is involved (e.g., the first cleavage division of the sea urchin egg, the contraction of skeletal muscle, the crawling motility of fibroblastic cells, and the beating of flagella). Lectures and assignments emphasize the role of quantitative theory and mathematical models in elucidating the molecular basis of physiological observations in these diverse areas.

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the Student Link for the most up-to-date course information.