Nanoaggregation on command: Light-controlled reversible aggregation of microtubules mediated by paclitaxel-modified cyclodextrin

A combination of natural microtubules and synthetic macrocyclic receptors allows for the light-controlled, reversible aggregation of the microtubules into larger nanostructures. When in a cellular environment these aggregated microtubules can also change cell morphology, causing cell death. Researchers hope to learn more about diseases caused by the improper aggregation of proteins.