Issue 18, 2017

Non-equilibrium assembly of microtubules: from molecules to autonomous chemical robots

Abstract

Biological systems have evolved to harness non-equilibrium processes from the molecular to the macro scale. It is currently a grand challenge of chemistry, materials science, and engineering to understand and mimic biological systems that have the ability to autonomously sense stimuli, process these inputs, and respond by performing mechanical work. New chemical systems are responding to the challenge and form the basis for future responsive, adaptive, and active materials. In this article, we describe a particular biochemical–biomechanical network based on the microtubule cytoskeletal filament – itself a non-equilibrium chemical system. We trace the non-equilibrium aspects of the system from molecules to networks and describe how the cell uses this system to perform active work in essential processes. Finally, we discuss how microtubule-based engineered systems can serve as testbeds for autonomous chemical robots composed of biological and synthetic components.

Graphical abstract: Non-equilibrium assembly of microtubules: from molecules to autonomous chemical robots

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
19 Jan 2017
First published
22 Mar 2017

Chem. Soc. Rev., 2017,46, 5570-5587

Non-equilibrium assembly of microtubules: from molecules to autonomous chemical robots

H. Hess and J. L. Ross, Chem. Soc. Rev., 2017, 46, 5570 DOI: 10.1039/C7CS00030H

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