|
Active Transport by Biomolecular Motors: A New Tool for Nanotechnology
H.
Hess
(1), C. Brunner (2), J. Clemmens (1),
K. H. Ernst (3), T. Nitta
(1), (1) Dep. of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle
(2) Dep. of Material Science, Swiss
Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Zurich
Swiss
Biomolecular motors are unique nanoscale machines, which convert chemical energy into mechanical work by hydrolyzing ATP. In nature, motors like kinesins and myosins perform a wide variety of functions, ranging from active transport of nanoscale objects within cells to the contraction of muscles. Inspired by these diverse biological applications, we have integrated biomolecular motors into synthetic devices in order to explore the potential of molecular motors in nanotechnology [ 1]. Examples for this approach are the “molecular shuttle” [2], a nanoscale transport system, “Monte-Carlo imaging” [3], a surface imaging method based on the random sampling of a surface by self-propelled nanoscale probes, and a piconewton forcemeter for the measurement of the strength of intermolecular bonds [4]. These hybrid devices are fabricated by combining protein-patterning, soft- lithography, and microfluidics with biomolecular techniques. Our most recent progress includes the design of complex track structures for molecular shuttles based on kinesin motors and microtubules [5, 6], and an investigation of the compatibility of materials frequently used in micro- and nanofabrication with the stringent requirements of motor proteins, and the ensuing effects on device lifetime [7]. The utilization of molecular motors in nanotechnology is an emerging area of research, and I will discuss our vision regarding the future of this exciting field.
[1] H. Hess, et al., Chemistry - A European Journal 2004, 10, 2110 [2] H. Hess, et al., Nano Letters 2001, 1, 235 [3] H. Hess, et al., Nano Letters 2002, 2, 113 [4] H. Hess, et al., Nano Letters 2002, 2, 1113 [5] H. Hess, et al., Nano Letters 2003, 3, 1651 [6] J. Clemmens, et al., Lab on a Chip 2004, 4, 83 [7] C. Brunner, et al., Nanotechnology 2004, 1 5, S540
|
|
Presented at the
International Congress of Nanotechnology, November 7-10, 2004
San Francisco, USA
|
[Home] [About]
[Membership] [ICNT]
[Education] [Call
for Papers] [Abstracts] [Exhibit]
[Hotel] [Registration] [Contact] |
| © 2002-2007 |