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A guide to building a low-cost centrifuge force microscope module for single-molecule force experiments.

Jibin Abraham Punnoose1, Andrew Hayden1, Chai S Kam1,2

  • 1The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA.

Nature Protocols
|December 31, 2024
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A low-cost Centrifuge Force Microscope (CFM) enables high-throughput single-molecule studies. This DIY instrument, built for under $1,000, makes advanced biophysics accessible to more researchers.

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Area of Science:

  • Biophysics
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Single-molecule force spectroscopy is crucial for understanding biological processes.
  • High cost and complexity of existing instruments limit accessibility.
  • Need for affordable, user-friendly tools for single-molecule research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present a protocol for building a low-cost Centrifuge Force Microscope (CFM).
  • To enable high-throughput single-molecule force measurements.
  • To democratize access to single-molecule biophysics techniques.

Main Methods:

  • Construction of a CFM module using 3D printing and off-the-shelf components.
  • Integration of the module into a commercial benchtop centrifuge.
  • Development of software for CFM control and data analysis.
  • Experimental measurement of force-dependent DNA duplex shearing.

Main Results:

  • A functional CFM module can be built for under $1,000 in approximately one day.
  • The CFM allows simultaneous probing of hundreds to thousands of single-molecule interactions.
  • Successful measurement of force-dependent DNA shearing using the CFM.

Conclusions:

  • The developed CFM protocol provides a cost-effective and accessible platform for single-molecule studies.
  • This approach can significantly lower the barrier to entry for single-molecule research.
  • Facilitates wider adoption of single-molecule techniques in biology and biophysics.