Nanoscale dynamic viscoelasticity analyzer by using optically driven nanobeams for study of biomolecules

Abstract

We have been developing optically driven micro-robots for biosensing such as cellular mechanical properties. In this report, we have created a novel optically driven micro-robot to analyze mechanical properties of cellular proteins. The micro-robot has two parallel beams with rectangular shaped walls on the end, extending from a base block. One of the beams can be manipulated to bend to and fro. When proteins are placed between the two walls, the movement of the manipulated beam will be mechanically transferred by proteins to the other wall causing it to move. By measuring both the input and output, mechanical properties of proteins can be identified. This device becomes unique tool for cellular biology.