Cuticle Elasticity and Viscoelastic Properties of Thistle Staminal Filaments

我们的建议涉及蓟的雄蕊细丝的机械特性，以及刺激传导和传递在生殖运动中的作用。早期的研究表明，与其他植物部分相比，这些细丝具有很高的弹性，但具体数据仍然缺乏。作为一种生物功能手段，角质层和细胞的独特机械性能的结合将我们的研究活动定位在一个多学科的领域。多学科的方法很明显，不仅生物学家(KH Hasenstein，T.Pesacreta，V.Sullivan)，而且还有一位材料科学家(E.Martin)参与了这个项目。由于活细胞、角质层和细胞壁其他部分的生物聚合物都与雄蕊细丝的功能有关，我们的研究将结合三个部门：材料研究、细胞生物科学和分子生物科学以及分子生物科学。由于我们建议共享现有的实验室设施，而不是购买新设备，因此满足了计划描述的其他标准。

Our proposal is concerned with the mechanical properties of the staminal filaments of thistles, and the role of stimulus transduction and transmission in thigonastic movements. Earlier studies have shown that these filaments are highly elastic compared to other plant parts but specific data are still lacking. The unique combination of mechanical properties of cuticle and cells as a means of biological function positions our research activities in a multi-disciplinary area. The multi-disciplinary approach is evident in that not only biologists (KH Hasenstein, T. Pesacreta, V. Sullivan) but also a materials scientist (e. MArtin) are involved in the project. Because both living cells and biopolymers of the cuticle and other portions of the cell wall are involved in the function of the staminal filaments, our research will interface three divisions: materials research, cellular biosciences and molecular biosciences and molecular biosciences. Since we propose to share existing laboratory facilities rather than purchasing new equipment, and additional criterium of the program description is met.