A.8.d. <<Previous Problem

In this experiment, a Band 3 IMP of a ghost membrane was manipulated using an optical tweezer, and any subsequent effect of this manipulation on the behavior of spectrin was recorded. Coated as it is with many divalent antibodies, the bead likely binds to several Band 3 proteins; three different spectrin molecules located some distance from the bead are each labeled with a gold sphere.

Consider the results of this experiment, answer the questions, refine your understanding of RBC membrane organization and fluidity (derived in part from your consideration of earlier questions in this problem set),and move on to 8.e.

QUESTIONS

1. Describe the effect, if any, of moving the latex bead on the location of the gold spheres (and attached spectrin).

2. Develop a hypothesis to explain the results of this manipulation, in light of the data presented in earlier videos.

3. Describe a specific test of this hypothesis and indicate clearly what the results would show.