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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Light-driven Molecular Motors on Surfaces for Single Molecular Imaging
08:40

Light-driven Molecular Motors on Surfaces for Single Molecular Imaging

Published on: March 13, 2019

Optically-controllable, micron-sized motor based on live cells.

M Gudipati, J D'Souza, J Dharmadhikari

    Optics Express
    |June 5, 2009
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

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    Live Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells were rotated in an optical trap, with flagella driving rotation. This biological rotation generates significant torque, far exceeding in vitro measurements.

    Area of Science:

    • Biophysics
    • Cell Biology
    • Microbiology

    Background:

    • Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is a model organism for studying flagellar motility.
    • Optical traps are used to manipulate and measure forces on microscopic objects.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To demonstrate and control the rotation of live Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells using an optical trap.
    • To investigate the role of flagella in cell rotation and quantify the generated torque and force.

    Main Methods:

    • Live Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells were immobilized and rotated within an optical trap.
    • Optical trapping force was varied to control rotation speed and direction.
    • Torque and force generated by rotating cells were measured.

    Main Results:

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    Last Updated: Jun 22, 2026

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    • Cells rotated at frequencies of 60-100 rpm, controlled by optical trapping force.
    • Functional flagella were essential for cell rotation.
    • Generated torque (~7500-12000 pN nm) was significantly larger than in vitro dynein activity.
    • Total force (~10 pN) suggests a small fraction of dynein molecules suffice for flagellar motion.

    Conclusions:

    • Optical trapping provides a method to control and study biological rotation in live cells.
    • Flagellar function in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii generates substantial torque, highlighting the efficiency of biological motors.
    • The findings provide insights into the mechanics of flagellar propulsion and the force-generating capacity of dynein motors.