Atomic force microscopy: seeing molecules of lipid and immunoglobulin

The atomic force microscope (AFM) can image individual molecules by raster-scanning a sharp tip over a surface. In this paper we present molecular-resolution images of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and of ultraviolet light-polymerized films of the lipid dimethyl-bis(pentacosadiynoyloxyethyl) ammonium bromide ("BRONCO"). The polar head groups of individual lipid molecules can be resolved on the surface of this and other lipid films. These lipid films also provide a good substrate for AFM imaging of DNA and of other molecules such as antibodies. Because the AFM scans surfaces, it is most often successful at imaging either molecules that can form an array on a surface or molecules that are quite firmly attached to a surface. The ability of the AFM to operate under water, buffers, and other liquids makes it possible to study biological molecules under conditions in which they are physiologically active. Imaging of the actual molecular process of fibrin polymerization shows the potential of the AFM for studying biological processes. In the six years since its invention, the AFM has excited much interest and has imaged molecules in a wide range of systems.