Single-molecule force spectroscopy: a method for quantitative analysis of ligand-receptor interactions

Nanomedicine (Lond). 2010 Jun;5(4):657-66. doi: 10.2217/nnm.10.26.

Abstract

The quantitative analysis of molecular interactions is of high interest in medical research. Most methods for the investigation of ligand-receptor complexes deal with huge ensembles of biomolecules, but often neglect interactions with low affinity or small subpopulations with different binding properties. Single-molecule force spectroscopy offers fascinating possibilities for the quantitative analysis of ligand-receptor interactions in a wide affinity range and the sensitivity to detect point mutations. Furthermore, this technique allows one to address questions about the related binding energy landscape. In this article, we introduce single-molecule force spectroscopy with a focus on novel developments in both data analysis and theoretical models for the technique. We also demonstrate two examples of the capabilities of this method.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Antigen-Antibody Reactions
  • Ligands
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / metabolism
  • Spectrum Analysis / methods*

Substances

  • Ligands
  • Receptors, Cell Surface