Revealing functions and interactions of biomolecules using single molecule imaging

Single molecule analysis is an indispensable technique for studying the structures and functions of biomolecules. To visualize the movement or chemical (enzymatic) reactions of biomolecules and bio-molecular interactions in vitro or in a living cell at the level of a single molecule, we are now developing techniques using TIREM (total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy) and SERRS (surface enhanced resonant Raman scattering). The aims of our study are as follows.

1. Analyses of functions and interactions of protein molecules Biomolecular machines such as chaperonins and motor proteins are labeled with fluorescent dyes. Their movement or conformational changes are visualized by TIRFM or SERRS.

2. Analysis of signal transduction in a living cell Interaction of receptors and ligands at the surface of a living cell and the movement and localization of specific RNA molecules in nucleolus or cytoplasm are visualized by fluorescence microscopy.

Research interest
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