Atomic force microscopy in bionanotechnology

Atomic force microscopy is extensively used for imaging surfaces ranging from micro- to nanometer scales, with the objective of visualizing and characterizing surface textures and shapes. It is the only technique that provides subnanometer resolution under physiological conditions, needed for imaging biological species like proteins and living cells. Measurements of molecular recognition forces provide insights into the function and structure of biomolecular assemblies. Furthermore, in combination with fluorescence microscopy, the technique can identify biomolecules based on fluorescence labeling and high-resolution topography imaging. Here we summarize recently developed techniques for advanced topographical imaging and sensitive force measurements.