Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics Research Group

Papers in Scientific Journals

Label-free detection of cell-contractile activity with lipid nanotubes

Abstract

Surface-bound self-assembled lipid nanotubes (LNTs) made of 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) were used to visualize the contractile activity of spreading cells. The interaction of cells with LNTs resulted in the nucleation of new nanotubes, directed toward the cell center, from existing ones. This process depended on cell generated forces and required acto-myosin mediated contractility. The dynamics of de novo generation of LNTs upon cell spreading was captured using optical microscopy on fluorescently labeled nanotubes and revealed characteristic fingerprints for different cell types such as fibroblasts, endothelial and melanoma cells. Additionally, the method was applied to detect the effect of a specific inhibitor on the generation of cellular forces. The mechanism of the LNT-cell interaction and the potential applications are discussed.

Journal
Integrative Biology
Volume
5
Issue
2
Pagination
423-430
Publisher
ACS Publishing
Keywords
cell contractility, Lipid nanotubes
Rights
Restricted Access
Peer Reviewed
Yes
Status
published
Year of Publication
2012
DOI
10.1039/C2IB20202F
Date Published
2012-11-19
Search Google ScholarGenerate BibTexDownload RTF
This website uses cookies. By using this website you consent to our use of these cookies. For more information visit our Policy Page.