Modeling and simulation of biopolymer networks: Classification of the cytoskeleton models according to multiple scales

We reviewed numerical/analytical models for describing rheological properties and mechanical behaviors of biopolymer networks with a focus on the cytoskeleton, a major component of a living cell. The cytoskeleton models are classified into three categories: the cell-scale continuum-based model, the structure-based model, and the polymerbased model, according to the length scales of the phenomena of interest. The criteria for classification of the models are modified and extended from those used by Mofrad [M. R. K. Mofrad, Annual Rev. Fluid Mech. 41, 433 (2009)]. The main principles and characteristics of each model are summarized and discussed by comparison with each other. Since the stress-deformation relation of cytoskeleton is dependent on the length scale of stress elements, our model classification helps systematic understanding of biopolymer network modeling.