In Vitro Microtubule and Motor Protein Motion on Glass

The intracellular microtubule associated protein kinesin uses adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as an energy source for unidirectional and processive motion on a microtubule filament. In a cell, kinesin motor proteins function as transporters for organelles, macromolecules and various particles. To study the related processes \textit{in vitro}, we have performed rhodamine-labeled microtubule gliding assays and kinesin-coated quantum dot motility assays on glass surfaces. Motility is observed by fluorescence microscopy. Results from these two assays, as well as the effect of ATP concentration on kinesin velocity will be presented. We will discuss how we use these assays for the manipulation of microtubules on a surface, thus enabling specific particle distribution by kinesin.