Dresden 2009 – scientific programme

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BP: Fachverband Biologische Physik

BP 12: Single Molecules

BP 12.1: Invited Talk

Wednesday, March 25, 2009, 09:30–10:00, HÜL 186

Conformational Mechanics of Single Protein Molecules — •Matthias Rief — Physikdepartment der TU München, Lehrstuhl für Biophysik E22, 85748 Garching

The development of novel ultrasensitive force probes with high spatial resolution, like AFM and optical tweezers, has allowed us to use mechanical force as a control parameter for bio-molecular conformation. Such single molecule experiments offer new possibilities for understanding the self-organization as well as the mechanical function of bio-molecules. In the talk I will discuss how mechanical forces can be used to explore the complex energy landscape of proteins. Examples will include equilibrium and non-equilibrium folding/unfolding of proteins, as well as force-induced conformational changes of protein-protein complexes.