Kinetic parameters from detection probability in single molecule force spectroscopy.

The detection probability of rupture events in AFM force spectroscopy measurements presents a viable alternative to standard methods for extracting kinetic parameters of dissociation. The detection probability has a maximum as a function of the probe velocity where (1) the probability to form a molecular bond is independent of the probe velocity and (2) the detection of rupture events is limited by noise and performed with a constant density of data points per distance of the probe displacement. This newly developed model indicates that the optimal detection velocity is independent of dissociation rate and depends on the distance to the barrier kinetic parameter. Therefore, the kinetic parameters of bond dissociation can be extracted from the dependence of detection probability on probe velocity and the detection threshold. This approach is sensitive to low rupture forces and therefore is complementary to the common most probable force data analysis approach. The developed approach is tested using rupture forces measured with specific bonds between biotin and streptavidin and with nonspecific bonds between linear alkanes in water. Results for the analysis of specific bonds rupture are consistent with the previous measurements, suggesting that rupture forces spanning a wide range of values originate from the same binding potential. Kinetic parameters obtained for linear alkanes are significantly different from previous measurements suggesting possible heterogeneity of the bound state.