The cytoskeleton consists of three types of biopolymers-actin filaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments-and the interplay between these components is essential for many cellular functions such as cell migration, mitosis, and the mechanical response to external cues. In the cell, the interactions between the filaments are mediated by a myriad of cross-linkers and motor proteins; however, direct forces, mediated by electrostatics or hydrophobicity, may also play an important role. Here, we provide experimental protocols and approaches for analysis and modeling for studying the interactions between either two individual vimentin intermediate filaments or between a vimentin intermediate filament and a microtubule.
Keywords: Confocal microscopy; Cytoskeleton; Energy landscape; Interaction forces; Intermediate filaments; Microfluidics; Microtubules; Quadruple-trap optical tweezers.
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