Resolving the molecular structure of microtubules under physiological conditions with scanning force microscopy.
Published
Journal Article
We have imaged microtubules, essential structural elements of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells, in physiological conditions by scanning force microscopy. We have achieved molecular resolution without the use of cross-linking and chemical fixation methods. With tip forces below 0.3 nN, protofilaments with approximately 6 nm separation could be clearly distinguished. Lattice defects in the microtubule wall were directly visible, including point defects and protofilament separations. Higher tip forces destroyed the top half of the microtubules, revealing the inner surface of the substrate-attached protofilaments. Monomers could be resolved on these inner surfaces.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- Schaap, IAT; de Pablo, PJ; Schmidt, CF
Published Date
- August 2004
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 33 / 5
Start / End Page
- 462 - 467
PubMed ID
- 14762705
Pubmed Central ID
- 14762705
Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)
- 1432-1017
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
- 0175-7571
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.1007/s00249-003-0386-8
Language
- eng