High frequency electrically-induced force generation by cellular plasma membranes.
Using a novel experimental technique that combines optical trapping with patch-clamp and fluorescence photometry, we provide preliminary evidence that native biological membranes are capable of electrically-induced piconewton level force generation in the absence of specialized transmembrane proteins. Force generation is dependent on membrane tension and the transmembrane electrical potential. Salicylate diminishes and presence of prestin, a transmembrane protein found in cochlear outer hair cells, enhances force generation.
Anvari
Bahman
B
Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005 USA (phone: 713-348- 5870; fax: 713-348- 5877; e-mail: anvari@rice. edu).
Qian
Feng
F
Pereira
Fred
F
Brownell
William
W