This second edition provides a pedagogical introduction to cell mechanics and mechanobiology with quantitative descriptions and solved examples. It covers essential topics from single molecule mechanics to whole-cell responses, including cellular polymers, cytoskeleton networks, and mechanotransduction.
This comprehensive second edition provides a pedagogical introduction to cell mechanics and mechanobiology, featuring quantitative descriptions of key concepts and solved examples throughout. The textbook demonstrates how understanding cellular responses to mechanical forces allows us to predict cell behavior and functionality in various environments.
Introduction to Cell Mechanics and Mechanobiology, Second Edition asks key questions about the quantitative concepts that make up this interdisciplinary field. The authors provide clear explanations of complex mechanobiological phenomena, from single molecule mechanics to whole-cell responses. The book covers essential topics including cellular polymers, cytoskeleton networks, membrane mechanics, and mechanotransduction, with primer chapters on solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, statistical mechanics, and cell biology to ensure accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds.
Designed for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in biomedical engineering, bioengineering, and mechanical engineering, users will appreciate complete derivations of relevant equations, practical laboratory applications, and comprehensive coverage of nuclear biomechanics. The twelve detailed chapters provide a complete framework for understanding both the technical and biological aspects of cellular mechanics, making this an invaluable resource for mastering the quantitative principles of mechanobiology.
Chapter 1 Cell Mechanics as a Framework
Chapter 2 Fundamentals in Cell Biology
Chapter 3 Solid Mechanics Primer
Chapter 4 Fluid Mechanics Primer
Chapter 5 Statistical Mechanics Primer
Chapter 6 Cell Mechanics in the Laboratory
Chapter 7 Mechanics of Cellular Polymers
Chapter 8 Polymer Networks and the Cytoskeleton
Chapter 9 Mechanics of the Cell Membrane
Chapter 10 Adhesion, Migration, and Contraction
Chapter 11 Cellular Mechanotransduction
Chapter 12 Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Nucleus
Christopher R. Jacobs (19652018) The late Dr. Christopher R. Jacobs was a Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University, where he served as the director of the Cell and Molecular Biomechanics Lab. A recognized leader in the field, Dr. Jacobs made seminal contributions to the understanding of bone cellular mechanotransduction and computational biomechanics, conducting research that aided in the development of new therapies for age-related bone loss and osteoporosis. His dedication to bridging the disciplines of mechanics and biology continues to influence the field.
Hayden Huang Hayden Huang Dr. Hayden Huang is a Senior Engineer in the Center for Science, Technology and Engineering at the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). A biomedical engineer by training, he currently covers issues related to health care and technology to help inform policy makers. Previously, he was a faculty member in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University, where his research investigated cell mechanics and cardiovascular physiology. Dr. Huang was a key architect of the original Introduction to Cell Mechanics and Mechanobiology text, drawing on his experience teaching the subject to students from a wide range of engineering and biological backgrounds.
Mohammad R. Kaazempur Mofrad Dr. Mohammad Kaazempur Mofrad is a Professor of Bioengineering and Mechanical Engineering at UC Berkeley, where he leads a multidisciplinary research program at the interface of biomechanics, mechanobiology, artificial intelligence, and computational biology. His laboratory investigates how physical forces shape biological structure and function across molecular, cellular, and multicellular scales, and develops computational tools and AI-driven approaches to advance human health.
