antony@george.lbl.gov (Antony A. Courtney) (10/25/90)
I am working on an extra credit project for my Human Anatomy and Physiology coure, and am having a rather difficult time finding references. Muscle contraction is based upon the action of several organic and inorganic molecules working together to effect contraction. This brought to mind the question: has anyone ever attempted to use extracts of actin and myosin to form an "artificial muscle", with the supporting structure supplying Acetylcholine and Ca++ as necessary to control contraction? If anyone knows of any research in this area, or can point me to a reference, I would REALLY appreciate it. Any other references to use of organic molecules as the basis for the contractile force in robotics would also be very much appreciated. Thanks for your help. Virtually, ~antony -- ******************************************************************************* Antony A. Courtney antony@george.lbl.gov Advanced Development Group ucbvax!csam.lbl.gov!antony Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory (415) 486-6692