Deformation of crosslinked semiflexible polymer networks

TL;DR

This paper investigates how the microstructure of crosslinked semiflexible polymer networks influences their elastic response, revealing two deformation regimes—affine and non-affine—based on crosslink density and filament rigidity.

Contribution

It introduces a model system to connect microstructural properties with macroscopic mechanical behavior of cytoskeletal networks, highlighting the transition between deformation regimes.

Findings

Identifies two deformation regimes: affine and non-affine.

Characterizes the crossover based on crosslink density and filament rigidity.

Provides insights into cell mechanics and cytoskeletal network behavior.

Abstract

Networks of filamentous proteins play a crucial role in cell mechanics. These cytoskeletal networks, together with various crosslinking and other associated proteins largely determine the (visco)elastic response of cells. In this letter we study a model system of crosslinked, stiff filaments in order to explore the connection between the microstructure under strain and the macroscopic response of cytoskeletal networks. We find two distinct regimes as a function primarily of crosslink density and filament rigidity: one characterized by affine deformation and one by non-affine deformation. We characterize the crossover between these two.