[Visualisation of cyanobacteria in aqueous solution by atomic force microscopy]

Area of Science:

• Microscopy techniques
• Cell biology
• Nanotechnology

Context:

• Studying living cells in aqueous environments presents challenges for high-resolution imaging.
• Atomic force microscopy (AFM) offers a method for nanoscale visualization of biological samples.

Purpose:

• To demonstrate methodical approaches for studying living cyanobacteria in aqueous solutions using AFM.
• To determine the size and morphology of Synechocystis PCC 6803 cells via AFM imaging.
• To discuss limitations and potential improvements for achieving molecular resolution in AFM studies of cells.

Summary:

• Living cyanobacteria (Synechocystis PCC 6803) were imaged in TES buffer using tapping mode AFM.
• Aminomodified mica substrates, prepared with 3-aminopropyltri-ethoxysilane, were utilized.
• The average dimensions of Synechocystis PCC 6803 were measured as 70 x 90 nm in linear size and approximately 20 nm in height.

Impact:

• Provides a foundational methodology for AFM-based analysis of microbial cells in their native aqueous state.
• Highlights key parameters influencing image resolution in liquid AFM.
• Suggests avenues for future research to enhance molecular-level understanding of cell structure, function, and micromechanics.