Fluorescence Methods to Probe Nanometer-Scale Organization of Molecules in Living Cell Membranes

Abstract

The ability to study the structure and function of cell membranes and membrane components is fundamental to understanding cellular processes. This requires the use of methods which are capable of resolving structures at nanometer-scale resolution in living cells. In this review we survey fluorescence imaging methodologies capable of nanometer-scale resolution. We then critically examine specific biological applications of these methods, in the context of understanding membrane protein conformation and dynamics, intracellular signaling, organization of lipid rafts, and cell surface topology.