The flexural rigidity of single microtubules is measured using optical tweezers. Two new methods are presented. In both the optical forces of the laser trap are used to directly manipulate microtubules grown off the ends of Chlamydomonas axonemes. The shapes of the microtubules are observed by video microscopy as the hydrodynamic forces of viscous flow counteract the elastic restoring forces when the microtubules are moved actively relative to the surrounding buffer medium. To determine the flexural rigidity, the bending of a microtubule is analyzed under a given velocity distribution along its length. Microtubules incubated with taxol after polymerization are measured to be more flexible than those without taxol added. On the other hand, MAPs are shown to increase microtubule stiffness.
2021 JCS Prize winner announced
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We are pleased to announce that the winner of the 2021 JCS Prize is Lee Dolat for his paper entitled ‘An endometrial organoid model of interactions between Chlamydia and epithelial and immune cells’.
Propose a new Workshop
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Our Workshops bring together leading experts and early-career researchers from a range of scientific backgrounds. Applications are now open to propose Workshops for 2024, one of which will be held in a Global South country.
Cell scientist to watch: Christian Münch
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Journal of Cell Science interviewed Christian Münch, who established his independent research group in 2016 at Goethe University Frankfurt. His lab studies cellular stress responses to mitochondrial protein misfolding, infection and disease, as well as developing proteomics methods.
Essay series: Equity, diversity and inclusion in cell biology
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The JCS Essay Series is an initiative to help showcase and provide a platform for voices in the field of cell biology. The first topic we covered was 'Equity, diversity and inclusion in cell biology', and the winning and runner up essays are now available to read.
FocalPlane Network launched
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We are excited to announce the launch of the FocalPlane Network, an international directory of microscopists. The idea behind the FocalPlane Network is to facilitate promotion and networking as well as assist those seeking conference speakers, committee members, reviewers or collaborators. We hope that it will help promote diversity in the community. Find out more and join the Network here.
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