Multiple color single molecule TIRF imaging and tracking of MAPs and motors

Microtubules are part of a complex mechano-chemical network inside cells. In order to understand how the components of these systems work together, careful in vitro experiments must be performed with added complexity. These experiments can ideally image all the interacting species. In order to image these molecules, multiple-color fluorescence imaging can be performed. In this chapter, we describe some methods for performing multiple-color single molecule fluorescence imaging using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy. We give several specific examples of species of microtubule-associate proteins and motors that can be examined with detailed protocols for labeling, purification, and imaging.