Transport of single cells using an actin bundle-myosin bionanomotor transport system

Nanotechnology. 2011 Jun 17;22(24):245101. doi: 10.1088/0957-4484/22/24/245101. Epub 2011 Apr 20.

Abstract

The potential of using actin bundles for the transport of liposomes and single cells across myosin-coated surfaces is investigated. Compared to that observed with filamentous actin, the liposome transport using actin bundles was more linear in nature and able to occur over longer distances. Bundles, but not filamentous actin, were capable of moving single cells. Cargo unloading from bundles was achieved by incubation with Triton X-100. These data suggest that actin bundling may improve the ability of the myosin motor system for nanotransport applications.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Actins / metabolism*
  • Actins / ultrastructure
  • Animals
  • Biological Transport
  • Biotinylation
  • Chickens
  • Escherichia coli / cytology*
  • Escherichia coli / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Liposomes / ultrastructure
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Myosin Type II / metabolism*
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*
  • Nanostructures / ultrastructure
  • Nanotechnology / methods*
  • Rabbits

Substances

  • Actins
  • Liposomes
  • Myosin Type II