Optical tweezers for the micromanipulation of plant cytoplasm and organelles

Laser trapping of micron-sized particles can be achieved utilizing the radiation pressure generated by a focused infrared laser beam. Thus, it is theoretically possible to trap and manipulate organelles within the cytoplasm and remodel the architecture of the cytoplasm and membrane systems. Here we describe recent progress, using this under utilized technology, in the manipulation of cytoplasmic strands and organelles in plant cells.

Research highlights▶ Laser traps/optical tweezers can be used to manipulate organelles within plant cell cytoplasm. ▶ Organelles can be trapped and used to create cytoplasmic strands within vacuoles. ▶ Manipulation of cytoplasmic using laser traps reveals that actin regulates cytoplasmic stiffness. ▶ Golgi bodies can be trapped and manipulated to remodel the cortical ER network in leaves. ▶ Optical trapping confirms connections between ER and Golgi and the existence of ER anchor points.