A Revolution in Optical Manipulation

David G. Grier
Dept. of Physics, James Franck Institute and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics
The University of Chicago
5640 S. Ellis Ave., Chicago, IL 60637

May 15, 2003

Abstract:

An optical tweezer uses the forces exerted by a strongly focused beam of light to trap and move objects ranging in size from tens of nanometers to tens of micrometers. Since their introduction in 1986, optical tweezers have become a mainstay of research in biology, physical chemistry, and soft condensed matter physics. This review highlights recent advances that promise to take optical tweezers out of the laboratory and into the mainstream of manufacturing, diagnostics, and even consumer products. By providing unprecedented access to the mesoscopic world, the next generation of single-beam optical traps also offers revolutionary new opportunities for fundamental and applied research.