Finite Element Framework for Mechanics and Dynamics of Supramolecular Protein Assemblies

Abstract

Introducation: The conformational dynamics and mechanical properties of supramolecular protein assemblies play a central role in a broad array of cellular functions ranging from migration and division to transcription and translation. The finite element method (FEM) provides a natural framework for the computation of protein normal modes and mechanical response based either on atomic coordinates or electron density maps [1]. Here, we present development of the finite element framework for the computation of actin filament mechanics and solvent damping effects. A new normal modes data bank for structures in the electron microscopy data bank (EMDB [2]) is also presented.