Soft Condensed Matter & Physics of Living Systems

Single molecule tracking and super-resolution imaging of azide- and alkyne-tagged
glycans on live cells with correlated laser feedback interference microscopy

Abstract

The surface of eukaryotic cells is covered with a dense layer of glycans that affect numerous physiological processes and aberrant cell-surface glycosylation has been implicated in cancer, inflammation and other diseases. Using a combination of metabolically labeled glycans with bioorthogonal click reactions, we implement single molecule tracking and super-resolution imaging of cell-surface glycans on live cells. We have developed a form of confocal interference microscopy, based upon laser feedback interferometry, to simultaneously measure the topography of the membrane.

We seek to experimentally verify the predictions of our model of energetics that govern the nucleation, growth and disassembly of integrin adhesions in the presence of long glycan molecules. Our experimental approach has enabled the visualization of dynamic tunneling nanotubes connections between cells and the tracking of glycosylated receptors along the surface of these membranes.

Event Details

Date/Time:

  • Date: 
    Tuesday, November 20, 2018 - 3:00pm to 4:00pm

Location:
Klaus 1116 East

For More Information Contact

Prof. Jennifer Curtis