title: Probing amyloid protein aggregation with optical superresolution methods: from the test tube to models of disease.
abstract: The misfolding and self-assembly of intrinsically disordered proteins into insoluble amyloid structures are central to many neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Optical imaging of this self-assembly process in vitro and in cells is revolutionizing our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind these devastating conditions. In contrast to conventional biophysical methods, optical imaging and, in particular, optical superresolution imaging, permits the dynamic investigation of the molecular self-assembly process in vitro and in cells, at molecular-level resolution. In this article, current state-of-the-art imaging methods are reviewed and discussed in the context of research into neurodegeneration.
authors.affiliation: University of Cambridge , Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3RA, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Clemens F
authors.initials: CF
authors.lastname: Kaminski
authors.affiliation: University of Cambridge , Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3RA, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Gabriele S
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Kaminski Schierle
keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; protein aggregation; protein misfolding; superresolution microscopy