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Atomic Force Microscopy of Biological Samples

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Abstract

The atomic force microscope (AFM) allows biomolecules to be observed and manipulated under native conditions. It produces images with an outstanding signal-to-noise ratio and addresses single molecules while the sample is in a buffer solution. Progress in sample preparation and instrumentation has led to topographs that reveal subnanometer details and the surface dynamics of biomolecules.Tethering single molecules between a support and a retracting AFM tip produces force–extension curves, giving information about the mechanical stability of secondary structural elements. For both imaging and force spectroscopy, the cantilever and its tip are critical: the mechanical properties of the cantilever dictate the force sensitivity and the scanning speed, whereas the tip shape determines the achievable lateral resolution.

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Authors
  1. P. L. T. M. Frederix
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  2. B. W. Hoogenboom
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  3. D. Fotiadis
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  4. D. J. Müller
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  5. A. Engel
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Frederix, P.L.T.M., Hoogenboom, B.W., Fotiadis, D. et al. Atomic Force Microscopy of Biological Samples. MRS Bulletin 29, 449–455 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1557/mrs2004.138

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