Effect of External Stimuli on the Dielectric Properties of Microtubules in the Gigahertz Range

Abstract

Microtubules (MTs), which are highly dynamic and are composed of highly polar and#945; and and#946;-tubulin proteins, play a crucial role in majority of the cell functions and thereby are the target for various therapeutic treatments. This doctoral work presents the characterization of MTs and amyloid beta plaque (Aand#61538;) from RF to optical range. newlineMTs and Aand#61538; were selected as samples for measuring the dielectric properties. Here, resonant perturbation technique was used for characterization in the GHz range of frequencies. The effect of external stimuli, like slowly varying fields from 1 Hz to 5 Hz, on the dielectric properties of MTs and Aand#61538; reveal that external exposure do not significantly affect dielectric properties of MTs, but the response of Aand#61538; can be manipulated. newlineA long-range energy interaction was carried out where the MTs were pumped in the GHz frequency range and response was observed in the MHz range. newlineLive imaging of the polymerization process of tubulin molecules to form MT and de-polymerization of MT using the confocal microwave imaging technique is presented. newlineIn addition, the time-dependent in-vitro study of disintegration of Aand#61538; using He-ion microscope divulged the fractal structure of Aand#61538; and also demonstrated that Clathrin Light Chain (CLC) disintegrates Aand#61538; and Clathrin Heavy Chain (CHC) alters the structural functionality. Mixture of CLC and CHC accelerates the disintegration process. Analysis of the disintegration process of Aand#61538; through spectral response in GHz range and through optical interferometer setup and its comparison with the Helium-ion imaging studies confirms the function of CLC and CHC in the disintegration of Aand#61538;. newlineAdditional works carried out during the course of this research work includes a theoretical analysis of the detection of micron-sized phantom of microtubule and wireless communication between microtubule analogous devices. newlineThus, it is anticipated that the result discussed in this doctoral thesis will further broaden the horizon of bio-physical understanding of MTs and its role in various neurodegenerative diseases. newline newline