Mechanical Forces and Proteins (IMAGE) University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee Caption Ionel Popa, UWM professor of physics, demonstrates the magnetic tweezers he and his lab members built to measure the mechanical forces that act on proteins as they fold and refold. Proteins are large molecules that carry out the body’s functions required for good health. Credit UWM Photo, Elora Hennessey Usage Restrictions Credit must be given to the creator. License CC BY 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.