Cell relaxation after electrodeformation: effect of latrunculin A on cytoskeletal actin.
Precise measurement of the mechanical properties of a cell provides useful information about its structural organization and physiological state. It is interesting to understand the effect of individual components on the mechanical properties of the entire cell. In this study, we investigate the influence of the cytoskeletal actin on the viscoelastic properties of a cell. Actin-specific agents, including latrunculin A and jasplakinolide, are used to alter the organization of the cytoskeletal actin. Brassica oleracea protoplasts are treated with the drugs and deformed under an external electric potential. The relaxation processes of single protoplasts after electrodeformation are measured. The data are analyzed by a model-independent spectrum recovery algorithm. Two distinct characteristic time constants are obtained from the relaxation spectra. Treatment with latrunculin A increases both of the relaxation time constants. The longest relaxation times for control, latrunculin A treated, and jasplakinolide treated cells are determined to be 0.28, 1.0, and 0.21 s, respectively.
Wong
Pak Kin
PK
Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
Tan
Winny
W
Ho
Chih-Ming
CM
D000199:Actins / Q000187:drug effects*; D000465:Algorithms; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001937:Brassica / Q000737:chemistry; D019086:Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic / Q000494:pharmacology*; D003598:Cytoskeletal Proteins / Q000187:drug effects; D047630:Depsipeptides / Q000494:pharmacology; D004566:Electrodes; D006207:Half-Life; D011523:Protoplasts / Q000166:cytology* / Q000187:drug effects*; D013057:Spectrum Analysis; D013844:Thiazoles / Q000494:pharmacology*; D053778:Thiazolidines; D014783:Viscosity / Q000187:drug effects
D000199:Actins; D019086:Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; D003598:Cytoskeletal Proteins; D047630:Depsipeptides; D013844:Thiazoles; D053778:Thiazolidines; C057531:jasplakinolide; C037067:latrunculin A