Force Dependent Binding Kinetics and Energy Storage/Dissipation within the Cytoskeleton

The mechanical response of materials is determined, in part, by the binding between constituents. Therefore, a relationship exists between the storage and dissipation of energy and the microscopic details of the material. One interesting aspect of biology is the existence of force-dependent binding kinetics, where bond lifetimes increase with the tension of the bond. I will discuss the effects of these “catch-bonds” on the thermodynamics and mechanical properties of biological materials in an effort to better understanding the role and consequence of catch-bonds within biology.