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Nonlinear Physics and Far from Equilibrium Systems
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Molecular motors
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Molecular motors use
chemical energy for their movement,
in the presence of thermal fluctuations
that, on these scales, are of a big
relative magnitude. Using a simple
model, based on a few relevant magnitudes,
we have been able to reproduce some
experimental results corresponding
to a given kind of molecular motor
(conventional kinesin). |
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Our
goal is, by the one hand, to improve
the model introducing some factors
that have not been taken into account.
By the other hand, extend the study
to other types of molecular motors,
as diosins or miosins. This is interesting
not only for its biological relevance,
but also for its possible applications
to nanotechnology. In this way, the
knowledge of the mechanism of operation
of these proteins may help in the
design and development of artificial
nanomechanisms with similar functions.
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Experiments
(K.Visscher
et. al, Nature 400, 184 (1999)) |
Our
simulations
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- Publications
Physical analysis
of a processive molecular motor: The
conventional kinesin,
A. Ciudad,
A.M. Lacasta and J.M. Sancho
Phys.
Rev. E 72, 031918 (2005).
Selected by "Virtual Journal of Biological
Physics Research" as an important contribution,
October 1st, 2005.
Dynamics of an inchworm nano-walker
A. Ciudad, J.M. Sancho and A.M.
Lacasta,
Submitted to Physica A (2005).
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Secció
del Departament de Física Aplicada EPSEB
Av. Dr. Marañón 44 - 08028 Barcelona - Tel.:
93-401 62 63 - blas@fa.upc.edu
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