Cytoskeleton and membrane (IMAGE) University of Maryland Caption New computer simulations from UMD reveal that much like earthquakes cell “quakes”—sudden restructuring of the cytoskeleton, or scaffolding, inside animal cells—is caused by the slow buildup and rapid release of mechanical energy. This image shows a simulated model cytoskeleton (red, green and blue mesh) contained within a cell membrane depicted in light blue. Credit Haoran Ni / University of Maryland Usage Restrictions none License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.