User:Andy Maloney/Notebook/Lab Notebook of Andy Maloney/2009/10/30/Heavy motility

Heavy PEM
So I have polymerized new microtubules and I have fixed them with a solution of Heavy PEM-T. I also have solutions of This means I can start a motility assay with the heavy water stuff.
 * Heavy PEM-$$\kappa$$C
 * Heavy PEM-$$\kappa$$CT
 * Heavy PEM-$$\kappa$$CA

Last time I tried this I was able to polymerize and stabilize microtubules in a solution of Heavy PEM. Hopefully, this will work this time around as well.

"100%" Heavy PEM
So 100% is in quotations because it really isn't 100% heavy water. I did not store my microtubules in a solution of heavy water nor is my kinesin in a solution of heavy water. However, every other buffer does have heavy water in it and my PEM is made from 100% heavy water.

As you can see, the results speak for themselves. Not only are microtubules stable in Heavy PEM, but the kinesin does process!

   

After 30 minutes, the little guys are still going!

   

And 1 hour and 30 minutes later.

   

Okay, there are just way too many videos to upload right now of really cool stuff. I will have to do it tomorrow.


 * Steve Koch 00:24, 31 October 2009 (EDT): My head is still spinning from all the cool things you saw with that assay. Too many thoughts to write down, but have to say, CONGRATULATIONS!  I think this is a huge breakthrough.  Even without knowing much fundamental, it's fascinating.  But I think it also shows that we have a new, crucial knob that we can turn in this system.  I can't figure out what category this page should be.  "Instant Classic"  "Breakthrough"  "Awesome"
 * Steve Koch 00:25, 31 October 2009 (EDT): Also, I am confused as to how much to advertise this. I'm so excited, I feel like posting all over the place.  But also wondering whether you should be the one to do that?  Or whether you'd want to wait.  A good connundrum to have.  Let me know what you think :)