C-Trap for the North West: Visualization of single molecule biomolecular dynamics for the biosciences.

 
Summary
Context
There is a rapidly growing need in the Biological Sciences and related fields to explore fundamental biological and biochemical processes at the single-molecule level. Optical tweezer technology, which uses light to trap and manipulate microscopic objects non-invasively, allows for nanoscale manipulation of biomolecules while simultaneously visualizing single-molecule events in real time using fluorescence microscopy. This technology has already revolutionized biology, biochemistry, biophysics, and bioengineering. The LUMICKS C-Trap system is the first commercially available, user-friendly platform that integrates optical tweezers with advanced imaging and microfluidics, democratising transformative single-molecule studies. However, this technology is currently unavailable in the North West region, creating a critical gap in the research capabilities of the community. Therefore, the overarching goal of this application is to establish Lancaster University as the central hub for single-molecule biophysics research in the North West by establishing a LUMICKS C-Trap system in our bio-imaging facility.
The Research the Equipment Will Enable
The C-Trap system will empower researchers to investigate complex molecular interactions and mechanoproperties at the single-molecule level, enhancing studies across a wide range of disciplines. The system enables real-time, dynamic experimentation, combining optical tweezers, precision force measurements, and confocal fluorescence microscopy under temperature-controlled and advanced microfluidics. Key research areas in the North West region supported by the C-Trap will include:

Protein-nucleic acid interactions crucial for DNA replication, repair, gene expression and innate immune sensing. 


Protein-protein and protein-lipid interactions, including those relevant to signal transduction and membrane biology. 


Mechanoproperties of macromolecular assemblies, cells, and membranes, underpinning cell function and disease biology.  


Photosynthetic and plant biochemistry pathways critical to food security and climate sustainability. 

This technology will significantly enhance collaboration and research outcomes in the Northwest region by providing access to advanced single-molecule techniques that are not currently available.
 
Aims and Objectives

Research Capacity Building: Develop advanced biophysics capabilities complementing other imaging and biophysical platforms and enabling access to cutting-edge C-Trap technology for academic and industrial partners. 


Regional Impact: Establish Lancaster University as the central hub for single-molecule biophysics research in the Northwest. 


Collaborative Research: Foster synergies across the North West’s research community, including through the BBSRC-funded NorthWestBio Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) and Doctoral Landscape Award (DLA), to accelerate shared scientific goals. 


Training and Skills Development: Provide hands-on training for researchers across all career stages, including PhD students and early career researchers (ECRs), in single-molecule methods. 

Potential Applications and Benefits
The installation of the C-Trap system will have wide-ranging benefits:

Generate high-impact data to advance understanding of fundamental biological mechanisms, including disease biology and therapeutic targets. 


Facilitate insights into photosynthetic pathways, supporting food security and sustainability efforts. 


Provide a state-of-the-art research platform for academia and industry, promoting technology transfer and knowledge exchange. 


Position the North West as a leading region for biological, biochemical, and biophysical sciences, strengthening its reputation nationally and internationally. 


Support the training of future UK scientists in dynamic single-molecule biophysics, equipping them with cutting-edge skills that span biology, biochemistry, and physics. 

Upon installation, expert support will be provided by LUMICKS and collaborating institutions with existing C-Trap platforms (Universities of St Andrews and Sheffield) to establish the C-Trap system as an accessible and versatile resource. The Bioimaging Facility in Lancaster University’s Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences (BLS) will serve as the base for this transformative technology, ensuring its integration into ongoing and future research programs.