Force-clamp spectroscopy with a small dithering of AFM tip, and its application to explore the energy landscape of single avidin-biotin complex

Ultramicroscopy. 2007 Oct;107(10-11):882-6. doi: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2007.04.010. Epub 2007 May 1.

Abstract

We have recently developed a new method for directly measuring the spring constant of single molecules and molecular complexes on a real-time basis [L.A. Chtcheglova, G.T. Shubeita, S.K. Sekatskii, G. Dietler, Biophys. J. 86 (2004) 1177]. The technique combines standard force spectroscopy with a small dithering of tip. Changes in the amplitude of the oscillations are measured as a function of the pulling-off force to yield the spring constant of the complex. In this report, we present the first results of combination of this approach with the force-clamp spectroscopy. The standard atomic-force microscope has been supplemented with an electronic unit, which is capable of realizing an arbitrary force function, and permits the force-loading regime to be interrupted at any time. Using this method, the time needed to rupture a single bond can be measured as a function of the force that is required to maintain the complex in a stretched condition. The energy landscape of the avidin-biotin complex is explored and discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Avidin / chemistry*
  • Biotin / chemistry*
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force / methods*
  • Spectrum Analysis

Substances

  • Avidin
  • Biotin