Two-dimensional manipulation and orientation of actin-myosin systems with dielectrophoresis

Molecular motors, as autonomous transporting and sensing systems, may play an important role in nanoscale technologies such as analytical and electromechanical systems. It is important to establish control of the patterning of deposition and to control the molecular motor-induced transport. Application of electrical signals to control motor motility is necessary for their integration with silicon electronics. We have applied dielectrophoretic (DEP) forces with quadrupole electrodes to pattern actin on a substrate. In addition, DEP torque(s) directed the motion of actin on myosin substrates along electric field lines. These are our first steps toward building an on-chip, integrated, biomotor analytical system.