The objective of this research is to fundamentally understand the governing mechanics of biological molecular transport mechanisms that can serve as a foundation for their direct use in integrated biomolecular systems or the development of nanoengineered systems that mimic these biological processes. Actin-myosin and nanotubule-kinesin systems represent two protein-based systems being explored as basic building blocks for realization of linear and rotary biomolecular motors based on biological nanoscale transport phenomena. The approach is fundamental exploration of the interaction of electric fields localized on the micron scale with the nanoscale actin-myosin motility assay. Electric fields established with integrated electrode structures under the assayed surface will be used to experimentally characterize their effect on nanoscale linear biomolecular motor filament alignment, direction of motion, and assay ambient. Fluorescence techniques will be used to optically observe actin motion in assay, with mass spectrometry and circular dichroism used to determine field effects on the actin-myosin system.
Control of biomolecular transport is essential to the advancement of nanokinematic systems whether for molecular cargo delivery in sensing or assembly processes, or as a means to interface micro-electro-mechanical systems with the nanoscale regime. This exploratory effort will establish the underlying framework for the control of nanoscale biomolecular motors from within a microelectronic environment. From an educational perspective, the activities of this project offer opportunities through research experiences and course module development for integrating students' educational experience across diverse areas including nano/microfabrication, electromagnetics, proteomics, microfluidics, and chemistry.
