Acting on actin: the electric motility assay

Eur Biophys J. 1998;27(4):403-8. doi: 10.1007/s002490050147.

Abstract

We have developed a novel technique which allows one to direct the two dimensional motion of actin filaments on a myosin coated sheet using a weak electric field parallel to the plane of motion. The filament velocity can be increased or decreased, and even reversed, as a function of orientation and strength of the field. PMMA (poly(methylmethacrylate)) gratings, which act as rails for actin, allow one for the first time to explore three quadrants of the force velocity diagram. We discuss effective friction, duty ratio and stall force at different myosin densities. A discontinuity in the velocity force relationship suggests the existence of dynamical phase transition.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Actins / chemistry*
  • Actins / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Biophysical Phenomena
  • Biophysics
  • Electric Stimulation
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Movement / physiology
  • Myosins / chemistry
  • Myosins / physiology
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate

Substances

  • Actins
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate
  • Myosins