Connections between physics and metabolism in brain functions

Figures

• 

  Figure 1. Examples of connections between physics and metabolism in brain functions (A) Changes in membrane lipid composition influence the rotational and translational diffusion of membrane lipids and proteins as well as membrane curvature and functions, including opening of ion-channels. (B) Actin and myosin II form contractile actomyosin networks that regulate cell mechanics by producing intracellular tension and coordinating force transmission across the cytoskeleton. (C) Mechanoreceptors such as PIEZO1/2 and TRPV4, can sense mechanical forces such as pressure, vibration, stretching, and touch in order to convert mechanical signals into electrochemical signaling. (D) Mechanometabolites are mechanosensitive metabolites whose production, distribution, or function is influenced by mechanical forces. Stiffness of the extracellular matrix (ECM) redirects glucose to the polyol pathway and increases intracellular sorbitol concentration, which promotes cell proliferation. (E and F) Both endocytosis and exocytosis are very active physical processes. Protein binding plays a critical role in membrane curvature and the formation of tubules/vesicles in the endocytic process. Furthermore, the…