Visualizing Protein Aggregates at the Single-Molecule Level

Explore advanced single-molecule microscopy techniques for studying protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases through this 27-minute webinar presented by Dr. Mathew H. Horrocks from the University of Edinburgh. Learn about the critical role of protein misfolding and oligomer formation in conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and discover how these aggregates serve as potential biomarkers despite their challenging detection due to small size and low concentrations. Examine newly developed single-molecule detection methods that use orthogonally labeled antibodies to investigate immobilized proteins, enabling the elimination of monomeric proteins and accurate quantification of aggregated forms. Study the application of these techniques using alpha-synuclein protein as a model system, demonstrating selective aggregate identification with detection limits as low as 5 picomolar. Understand how this versatile approach can be applied across various biological samples, including human biofluids, and its potential for identifying crucial biomarkers to improve diagnostic capabilities for neurodegenerative disorders. Gain insights from Dr. Horrocks' extensive research background in single-molecule techniques and protein aggregation studies, including his work at Cambridge and Edinburgh universities, and his recognition as recipient of the Royal Society of Chemistry's Joseph Black Award for Analytical Chemistry.