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Updated: Feb 3, 2026
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Force Spectroscopy of Single Protein Molecules Using an Atomic Force Microscope
Published on: February 28, 2019
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[Application of atomic force microscopy-based single molecule force spectroscopy in G-quadruplex studies].
Wenjing Liu1,2, Tong Sun1,2, Ping Zhang1,2
1Laboratory of Physical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China.
Summary
G-quadruplex structures are key anticancer targets. Single molecule force spectroscopy effectively measures interactions between small molecules and G-quadruplexes, aiding anticancer drug development.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Telomeres are critical in cellular processes and are potential anticancer targets.
- Guanine-rich sequences form G-quadruplex structures that inhibit telomerase activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advances in single-molecule force spectroscopy for studying G-quadruplex structures.
- To highlight the interaction analysis between small molecule ligands and G-quadruplexes for anticancer drug screening.
Main Methods:
- Single molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) using atomic force microscopy (AFM).
- Direct measurement of interaction forces between small molecules and G-quadruplexes.
Main Results:
- SMFS provides direct insights into G-quadruplex structure and ligand interactions.
- This technique is crucial for evaluating the efficacy of potential anticancer drugs targeting G-quadruplexes.
Conclusions:
- Single molecule force spectroscopy is a powerful tool for G-quadruplex research.
- The application and development trends of SMFS in G-quadruplex studies are summarized, paving the way for novel anticancer drug discovery.
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