Protein Linear Molecular Motor-Powered Nanodevices

Abstract

Myosin–actin and kinesin–microtubule linear protein motor systems and their application in hybrid nanodevices are reviewed. Research during the past several decades has provided a wealth of understanding about the fundamentals of protein motors that continues to be pursued. It has also laid the foundations for a new branch of investigation that considers the application of these motors as key functional elements in laboratory-on-a-chip and other micro/nanodevices. Current models of myosin and kinesin motors are introduced and the effects of motility assay parameters, including temperature, toxicity, and in particular, surface effects on motor protein operation, are discussed. These parameters set the boundaries for gliding and bead motility assays. The review describes recent developments in assay motility confinement and unidirectional control, using micro- and nano-fabricated structures, surface patterning, microfluidic flow, electromagnetic fields, and self-assembled actin filament/microtubule tracks. Current protein motor assays are primitive devices, and the developments in governing control can lead to promising applications such as sensing, nano-mechanical drivers, and biocomputation.