Electrical control of kinesin-microtubule motility using a transparent functionalized-graphene substrate

Nanotechnology. 2013 May 17;24(19):195102. doi: 10.1088/0957-4484/24/19/195102. Epub 2013 Apr 17.

Abstract

We report a new strategy to selectively localize and control microtubule translocation via electrical control of microtubules using a microfabricated channel on a functionalized-graphene electrode with high transparency and conductivity. A patterned SU-8 film acts as an insulation layer which shields the electrical field generated by the graphene underneath while the localized electric field on the exposed graphene surface guides the negatively charged microtubules. This is the first report showing that functionalized graphene can support and control microtubule motility.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Electric Conductivity
  • Electrodes
  • Equipment Design
  • Fungal Proteins / metabolism*
  • Graphite / chemistry
  • Graphite / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Kinesins / metabolism*
  • Micro-Electrical-Mechanical Systems / instrumentation*
  • Microtubules / metabolism*
  • Neurospora crassa / metabolism*

Substances

  • Fungal Proteins
  • Graphite
  • Kinesins