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Optical trapping and manipulation of viruses and bacteria
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 20, 1987
Summary
Scientists used laser traps to manipulate viruses and bacteria without causing damage. This optical trapping technique successfully moved tobacco mosaic viruses and live bacteria, including Escherichia coli, using low laser power.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Microbiology
- Optics
Background:
- Optical trapping utilizes laser radiation pressure for precise manipulation of microscopic particles.
- Viruses and bacteria are critical targets for study in various biological and medical fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the optical trapping and manipulation of viruses and bacteria using single-beam gradient traps.
- To assess the viability of trapped microorganisms after manipulation.
Main Methods:
- Employing single-beam gradient optical traps to capture individual viruses and bacteria.
- Utilizing argon laser at approximately 120 milliwatts for virus manipulation.
- Using a high-resolution microscope with low milliwatt laser powers for bacteria manipulation.
Main Results:
- Successfully trapped individual tobacco mosaic viruses and dense viral arrays in aqueous solution without apparent damage.
- Demonstrated the trapping and manipulation of single live motile bacteria and Escherichia coli.
- Achieved manipulation at low laser power levels, indicating minimal harm to the biological samples.
Conclusions:
- Optical trapping is a viable, non-damaging method for manipulating viruses and bacteria.
- This technique offers precise control for studying microbial behavior and interactions.
- Low laser powers are sufficient for effective manipulation of bacteria, preserving their viability.