Dancing Bones

While scientists and artists often learn from bringing their disciplines together, sometimes they can stand back and let the science create the art. These microtubules are bendy 'bone-like' protein structures usually found propping up the cell’s cytoskeleton – but inside this wheel-shaped channel, they appear to dance. Adapting their movement to this new environment, they take on a liquid swirl like noodles in a pan (although 10,000 times smaller). This is a striking example of active matter – the microtubules synchronise themselves into waves of movement similar to collective behaviour seen in swarms and shoals elsewhere in nature. Controlling such fluids may be a way to extract energy from their motion, which may open the way to drive tiny motors and engines inside or outside our cells.

Written by John Ankers

John Ankers

Writer

A former researcher in systems biology, John is now an online biology tutor and professional coach supporting the wellbeing of scientists and NHS professionals. He's writing, too, of course.

Website

• Video by Ignasi Vélez-Ceron Dr. Jordi Ignés & Dr. Francesc Sagués, 5th place in Nikon Small World in Motion comp 2022
• University of Barcelona Department of Materials Science and Physical Chemistry Barcelona, Spain
• Video copyright held by Ignasi Vélez-Ceron Dr. Jordi Ignés & Dr. Francesc Sagués