Varying label density allows artifact-free analysis of membrane-protein nanoclusters

Nat Methods. 2016 Aug;13(8):661-4. doi: 10.1038/nmeth.3897. Epub 2016 Jun 13.

Abstract

We present a method to robustly discriminate clustered from randomly distributed molecules detected with techniques based on single-molecule localization microscopy, such as PALM and STORM. The approach is based on deliberate variation of labeling density, such as titration of fluorescent antibody, combined with quantitative cluster analysis, and it thereby circumvents the problem of cluster artifacts generated by overcounting of blinking fluorophores. The method was used to analyze nanocluster formation in resting and activated immune cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / chemistry
  • Artifacts*
  • CHO Cells
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism*
  • Cluster Analysis
  • Cricetulus
  • Fluorescent Dyes / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Jurkat Cells
  • Light
  • Membrane Proteins / chemistry
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence / methods*
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Membrane Proteins