Intra- and extracellular macromolecular networks: physics and biological function

In order to adapt the physical properties of living materials to their biological function, nature has developed (polyelectrolytic) polymers with outstanding physical behaviour. Nature provides giant macromolecules (such as actin filaments), which can be directly observed and which comprise the whole range of flexibilities from the random coil to the rigid rod. The structure and dynamics of the macromolecules and networks can be manipulated in many ways by making use of the tricks of nature. In the present contribution some of the most pertinent elements of the intracellular and extracellular matrix are introduced. One main purpose of this contribution is to show that many of these polymers are also of great potential interest in polymer science, in order to study fundamental properties of macromolecules and macromolecular networks. Another intention is to bridge the gap between biological material research and the physics and chemistry of polymers and other complex fluids and to plead for a closer cooperation between the two fascinating worlds.