Modeling of biological polymers - discrete and continuum-mechanics formulations

Abstract

Proteins and chromosomes are the essential polymers of life. The proteins are the primary matter for sustaining life through constituting most of the living matter along with storing and using energy. The DNA is at the origin of life by carrying the genetic code and performing the functions of replication and transcription for the production of protein. Their dynamics are thought to determine their biological functions as well as their malfunction which have vital consequences. Similarly, and stability statics studies are also important in determining the material properties and structure of these polymers. The information provided by statics can be used either for its own sake such as for understanding the strength and deformation of muscles or provides the necessary data to be used for dynamical studies. Stability studies on the other hand would be useful for instance in understanding the formation of beta sheets and the folding of proteins.