Login / Signup

On the utility of microfluidic systems to study protein interactions: advantages, challenges, and applications.

Serena A J WatkinRachel Z BennieJenna M GilkesVolker M NockFrederick Grant PearceRenwick C J Dobson
Published in: European biophysics journal : EBJ (2022)
Within the complex milieu of a cell, which comprises a large number of different biomolecules, interactions are critical for function. In this post-reductionist era of biochemical research, the 'holy grail' for studying biomolecular interactions is to be able to characterize them in native environments. While there are a limited number of in situ experimental techniques currently available, there is a continuing need to develop new methods for the analysis of biomolecular complexes that can cope with the additional complexities introduced by native-like solutions. We think approaches that use microfluidics allow researchers to access native-like environments for studying biological problems. This review begins with a brief overview of the importance of studying biomolecular interactions and currently available methods for doing so. Basic principles of diffusion and microfluidics are introduced and this is followed by a review of previous studies that have used microfluidics to measure molecular diffusion and a discussion of the advantages and challenges of this technique.
Keyphrases
  • mental health
  • high throughput
  • small molecule
  • protein protein
  • single molecule
  • medical education