Îçҹ̽»¨

Optical Tweezers

Idea: In this experiment we learn how force can be used to characterize
molecular processes in biological systems

Biophysics Lab Course, Institute of Biophysics, Îçҹ̽»¨

Overview

An optical trap is calibrated by measuring the escape force for polystyrene beads and its dependence on laser power.

Rotation of E.coli attached with one flagellum to a glass substrate is used for the investigation of the flagellar motor.

The torque excerted by the flagellar motor is determined in two ways:

  • The angular velocity is measured, knowing the friction of the surrounding medium.
  • The escape force for rotational motion is measured with optical tweezers.

Master of Science in Biophysics

Contact: Prof. Dr. Jens MichaelisDr. Carlheinz Röcker, Institute of Biophysics