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Cell Biophysics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:36:13
Abstract
A mathematical description is derived for a variety of biological phenomena at the molecular and cellular level applying the two fundamental principles of thermodynamics (entropy maximization and Gibbs energy minimization).
Objective
Engineering uses the laws of physics to predict the behavior of a system. Biological systems are so diverse and complex prompting the question whether we can apply unifying concepts of theoretical physics coping with the multiplicity of life’s mechanisms. Objective of this course is to show that biological phenomena despite their variety can be analytically described using only two concepts from statistical mechanics: maximization of the entropy and minimization of the Gibbs free energy. Starting point of the course is the probability theory, which enables to derive step-by-step the two pillars of statistical mechanics: the maximization of entropy according to the Boltzmann’s law as well as the minimization of the Gibbs free energy. Then, an assortment of biological phenomena at the molecular and cellular level (e.g. cytoskeletal polymerization, action potential, photosynthesis, gene regulation, morphogen patterning) will be examined at the light of these two principles with the aim to derive a quantitative expression describing their behavior according to experimental data. By the end of the course, students will also learn to critically evaluate the concepts of making an assumption and making an approximation.
Content
1. Basics of theory of probability 2. Boltzmann's law 3. Entropy maximization and Gibbs free energy minimization 4. Two-state systems and the MWC model 5. Random walks and macromolecular structures 6. Electrostatics for salty solutions 7. Elasticity: fibers and membranes 8. Diffusion and crowding: cell signaling 9. Molecular motors 10. Action potential: Hodgkin-Huxley model 11. Photosynthesis 12. Gene regulation 13. Development: Turing patterns 14. Sequences and evolution
Resources
Literature
- Statistical Mechanics: K. Dill, S. Bromberg, Molecular Driving Forces, 2nd Edition, Garland Science, 2010. - Biophysics: R. Phillips, J. Kondev, J. Theriot, H. Garcia, Physical Biology of the Cell, 2nd Edition, Garland Science, 2012.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 180 minutes
- Aids
- open book
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Cell Biophysics |
|
4 h weekly |
Offered In
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Bioengineering (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
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Recommended Elective Courses (These courses are particularly recommended for the Biomechanics track. Please consult your track advisor if you wish to select other subjects.)
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Recommended Elective Courses (These courses are particularly recommended for the Bioelectronics track. Please consult your track advisor if you wish to select other subjects.)
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Track Core Courses (During the Master programme, a minimum of 12 CP must be obtained from track core courses.)
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General Electives (Students may choose General Electives from the entire course programme of ETH Zurich - with the following restrictions: courses that belong to the first or second year of a Bachelor curriculum at ETH Zurich as well as courses from GESS "Science in Perspective" are not eligible here. The following courses are explicitly recommended to physics students by their lecturers. (Courses in this list may be assigned to the category "General Electives" directly in myStudies. For the category assignment of other eligible courses keep the choice "no category" and take contact with the Study Administration ( ) after having received the credits.))
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