Abstract
Hierarchical structure and mechanics are crucial in biological systems as they allow for smaller molecules, such as proteins and sugars, to be used in the construction of large scale biological structures exhibiting properties such as structural support functionality. By exploring the fundamental principles of structure and mechanics at the macroscale, this general theme provides a clear insight into how physics can be applied to the complex questions of biology. With a focus on biopolymer networks and hydrogels, we present a series of interactive activities which cover a range of biophysical concepts at an introductory level, such as viscoelasticity, biological networks and ultimately, hierarchical biomechanics. These activities enable us to discuss multidisciplinary science with a general audience and, given the current trends of research science, this conceptualisation of science is vital for the next generation of scientists.
Highlights
Across the world, the prevailing view of science appears to be that it is split into three disciplines: physics, chemistry and biology, and that these disciplines are completely separate
When considering how proteins function from a physical perspective, it is perhaps best to think not Hierarchcial biomechanics: student engagement activities with a focus on biological physics (a) about what the specific function of each protein is, but instead how each protein is able to retain its mechanical equilibrium and deform about this equilibrium ‘folded’ structure at body temper ature
We have described a series of activities for communicating complex biophysical ideas to a non-expert audience, using current research into protein hydrogels as a primary focus
Summary
The prevailing view of science appears to be that it is split into three disciplines: physics, chemistry and biology, and that these disciplines are completely separate. Physics, chemistry and biology become exceedingly blurred in the field of applied liquid crystals, for example, where the optical properties of liquid crystals make them an interesting candidate for contact lenses [2, 3]. The remainder of this paper will present a series of activities which aim to showcase interdisciplinary science by using protein hydrogels as a focus. One of these was to a group of students aiming to study physics at A-level, but likely studying the other sciences as well at GCSE level. The second was at the University of Leeds research open day ‘Be Curious’, an annual event which aims to bring current research, across all disciplines, to the public
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