Reversible switching of microtubule motility using thermoresponsive polymer surfaces

We report a novel approach for the dynamic control of gliding microtubule motility by external stimuli. Our approach is based on the fabrication of a composite surface where functional kinesin motor-molecules are adsorbed onto a silicon substrate between surface-grafted polymer chains of thermoresponsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide). By external temperature control between 27 and 35 degrees C, we demonstrate the reversible landing, gliding, and releasing of motor-driven microtubules in response to conformational changes of the polymer chains. Our method represents a versatile means to control the activity of biomolecular motors, and other surface-coupled enzyme systems, in bionanotechnological applications.