Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026

07:48
Preparation of Mica Supported Lipid Bilayers for High Resolution Optical Microscopy Imaging
Published on: June 7, 2014
Self-assembly of HDL network on mica
Tomoko Ohara1, Nobuhiko Kubo, Mikihiko Kawano
1Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Jichi Medical School, Minami-kawachi-gun, Tochigi-pref. 329-0498.
Summary
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) self-assembles into a honeycomb network on mica. This structure, with wires as narrow as 5.6 nm, shows potential for nanotechnology applications.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Nanotechnology
- Materials Science
Background:
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL) structure is of significant scientific interest.
- Understanding HDL self-assembly is crucial for its potential applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To observe the self-assembly of HDL on mica surfaces.
- To characterize the network formation of HDL using advanced microscopy techniques.
Main Methods:
- Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) was employed to visualize HDL structures.
- HDL samples were deposited and observed on mica substrates.
Main Results:
- HDL self-assembled into a distinct honeycomb-like network on mica.
- The narrowest observed HDL structures (wires) measured approximately 5.6 nm in width.
Conclusions:
- HDL exhibits self-assembly properties forming ordered networks.
- The observed nanoscale structures suggest potential applications in microcircuitry and nanotechnology.

