Membrane proteins are embedded in the lipid bilayer of the plasma membrane and their function in this context is often linked to their specific location and dynamics within the membrane. Here authors report the use of fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles to track membrane molecules and to manipulate their movement and pull membrane components laterally through the membrane with femtonewton-range forces.
- Jia Hui Li
- Paula Santos-Otte
- Helge Ewers