Theoretical Modeling of Protein Self-assembly in Biology

assembly in particular is associated with a wide range of functions including cell division, cell motility and diseases such as Alzheimers' and Parkinsons'. The forces generated during the growth of native self-assemblies such as actin and microtubules is vital for cellular function. The generation of forces is achieved by a reversible polymerization of the constituent monomers (tubulin and actin monomers). On the other hand, aberrant self-assembly of proteins due to incorrect folding or changes in solution conditions could lead to the formation of beta-sheet rich filaments known as amyloids which could result in cell death, like in case of neurodegenerative diseases. However, similar ordered structures have also been known to perform useful functions such as reversible hormone storage, scaffold for cell growth etc.