- A DNA-based molecular probe for optically reporting cellular traction forces.
A DNA-based molecular probe for optically reporting cellular traction forces.
Nature methods (2014-10-13)
Brandon L Blakely, Christoph E Dumelin, Britta Trappmann, Lynn M McGregor, Colin K Choi, Peter C Anthony, Van K Duesterberg, Brendon M Baker, Steven M Block, David R Liu, Christopher S Chen
PMID25306545
ABSTRACT
We developed molecular tension probes (TPs) that report traction forces of adherent cells with high spatial resolution, can in principle be linked to virtually any surface, and obviate monitoring deformations of elastic substrates. TPs consist of DNA hairpins conjugated to fluorophore-quencher pairs that unfold and fluoresce when subjected to specific forces. We applied TPs to reveal that cellular traction forces are heterogeneous within focal adhesions and localized at their distal edges.
MATERIALS
Product Number
Brand
Product Description
Sigma-Aldrich
(−)-Riboflavin, BioReagent, suitable for cell culture, suitable for insect cell culture, ≥98%
Sigma-Aldrich
L-Thyroxine sodium salt pentahydrate, γ-irradiated, powder, BioXtra, suitable for cell culture
Sigma-Aldrich
Acetonitrile solution, contains 0.05 % (w/v) ammonium formate, 5 % (v/v) water, 0.1 % (v/v) formic acid, suitable for HPLC
Sigma-Aldrich
Acetonitrile solution, contains 10.0% acetone, 0.05% formic acid, 40.0% 2-propanol