Biomod/2011/Columbia/MotorProTeam:Background Information

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Our research focuses on applications of nanoscale motors that can initiate transport of cargo on the nano and micro scale. We aim to reach a level of force-multiplication of microtubules, that is, using multiple microtubules in order to create more effective, efficient, and reliable transport systems than the current method.

Microtubules are polymers of α and β tubulin dimers. The actin assembles into protofilaments which then create a hollow cylindrical filaments. In our project, cargo will attach to the microtubule using biotin-streptavidin bonds.

Kinesin is a type of motor protein that can move along microtubules. They are fueled by ATP and "walk" towards the positive end of a microtubule.

An example of microtubule motility on two kinesin motor proteins. Microtubule length not to scale.

An example of microtubule motility on a kinesin coated surface. Microtubule length not to scale.

An artistic representation of the team's proposed transport structure.