Cytoskeleton as a Fractal Percolation Cluster: Some Biological Remarks

Abstract

The possibility being discussed is that the cytoskeleton, the intricate polymeric meshwork which spans the cytoplasm, may be regarded as a percolation system and that at the edge of the percolation transition mechanotransduction may be enhanced. Since calcium ion can be considered the main factor controlling the state of the cytoskeletal network, it is hypothesized that the increase of free intracellular calcium which follows a mechanical stimulus may serve to “ loosen” the cytoskeletal network into a fractal percolation cluster, a partial sol state at which mechanotransduction is most efficient. It is also suggested that such a critical state represents an optimal condition for generation of mechanical forces.