ULTIMATE COMPUTING - Quantum Consciousness Studies

170 Models of Cytoskeletal Computing
8.2.9 Dynamic Tensegrity/Heidemann and Jarosch
Buckminister Fuller proposed an interesting architecture constructed from
components which may have a recursive or fractal structure (Fuller, 1975). Its
macro level structure, a “tensegrity mast,” is a rigid structure constructed from an
assembly of tension and compression members. The compression members of
solid struts are isolated from each other, held together by the tension members. In
one of Fuller’s variations, he notes that in the macro tensegrity mast, each
individual solid strut may be replaced by a miniaturized version of the macro
tensegrity mast. And then each one of the miniature solid struts may itself be
replaced by a still smaller subminiature tensegrity mast, and so on down to the
atomic level. Thus tensegrity structures may have a fractal substructure.
Joshi, Chu, Buxbaum and Heidemann (1985) have shown that cytoplasm has
both compressive and tensile elements. Semi-rigid microtubules are under
compression presumably due to tension generated by actin filaments and the
microtrabecular lattice or “cytomusculature” (Chapter 5). In general, MT do not
contact each other so that the self-supporting capability of cytoplasm may stem
from tensegrity.
Robert Jarosch (1986) has published a series of papers describing actin-MT
interactions which suggest that 1) contractile actin filaments are spirally wound
around microtubules, 2) coordinated contraction of the actin filaments imparts a
rotational torque to MT, somewhat like a spinning top, 3) actin filaments wound
in opposite directions on the same MT can cause rotational oscillations of the MT.
These two models fit together to provide a picture of a dynamic cytoplasmic
tensegrity network in which the cytoskeleton may be twisting back and forth,
even “rockin’ and rollin’!” Perturbation of any part of such a tensegrity network
could have dynamic consequences throughout its domain. Transient changes in
tension, compression, or oscillatory rhythm caused by a variety of factors would
be detectable and possibly amplified throughout the cytoskeleton.