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Construction of a Three-Color Prism-Based TIRF Microscope to Study the Interactions and Dynamics of Macromolecules
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Construction of a Three-Color Prism-Based TIRF Microscope to Study the Interactions and Dynamics of Macromolecules

Max S. Fairlamb, Amy M. Whitaker, Fletcher E. Bain, Maria Spies and Bret D. Freudenthal
Biology (Basel, Switzerland), Vol.10(7), 571
07/01/2021
DOI: 10.3390/biology10070571
PMCID: PMC8301196
PMID: 34201434
url
https://doi.org/10.3390/biology10070571View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Simple Summary Prism-based single-molecule total internal reflection fluorescence (prismTIRF) microscopes are excellent tools for studying macromolecular dynamics and interactions. Here, we provide an easy-to-follow guide for the design, assembly, and operation of a three-color prismTIRF microscope using commercially available components with the hope of assisting those who aim to implement TIRF imaging techniques in their laboratory. Single-molecule total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy allows for the real-time visualization of macromolecular dynamics and complex assembly. Prism-based TIRF microscopes (prismTIRF) are relatively simple to operate and can be easily modulated to fit the needs of a wide variety of experimental applications. While building a prismTIRF microscope without expert assistance can pose a significant challenge, the components needed to build a prismTIRF microscope are relatively affordable and, with some guidance, the assembly can be completed by a determined novice. Here, we provide an easy-to-follow guide for the design, assembly, and operation of a three-color prismTIRF microscope which can be utilized for the study of macromolecular complexes, including the multi-component protein-DNA complexes responsible for DNA repair, replication, and transcription. Our hope is that this article can assist laboratories that aspire to implement single-molecule TIRF techniques, and consequently expand the application of this technology.
Biology Life Sciences & Biomedicine Life Sciences & Biomedicine - Other Topics Science & Technology

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