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Atomic Force Microscopy

Atomic Force Microscopy

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a type of scanning probe microscopy that can analyze topographic details of various specimens like ceramics, glass, polymers, and biological samples. AFM offers over 1000 times more resolution than the optical imaging system. Images generated from AFM are three-dimensional surface profiles, offering an advantage over the flat, two-dimensional images from other imaging techniques.
The AFM Probe
The probe is regarded as the heart of any AFM setup and comprises the...

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Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Protrusion Force Microscopy: A Method to Quantify Forces Developed by Cell Protrusions

Protrusion Force Microscopy: A Method to Quantify Forces Developed by Cell Protrusions

Published on: June 16, 2018

Atomic force microscopy comes of age.

Lewis W Francis¹, Paul D Lewis, Chris J Wright

¹Institute of Life Science, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK. fran1@hotmail.com

Biology of the Cell

|December 17, 2009

Summary

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) offers a significant advancement for cellular function research. This powerful technique maps cell topography, morphology, and force interactions, paving the way for new biomedical discoveries.

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Area of Science:

* Biophysics
* Cell Biology
* Nanotechnology

Background:

* Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a high-resolution imaging technique.
* AFM provides quantitative data on cellular topography, morphology, and surface proteins.
* Emerging applications and combined instrumentation are expanding AFM's utility in biological research.

Purpose of the Study:

* To review the current applications and impact of AFM in cell biology and biomedical research.
* To highlight AFM's potential for analyzing fixed and live cells in physiological conditions.
* To discuss the contribution of AFM to understanding biological systems.

Main Methods:

* Analysis of fixed and live cells using AFM.
* Mapping of cell topography, morphology, and surface protein expression.
* Detection of pico-Newton force interactions.
* Application of image analysis techniques including height, contrast, roughness, fractal, and volume analysis.

Main Results:

* AFM enables detailed qualitative and quantitative analysis of cellular structures.
* Fixed cell analysis can reveal new biomarkers for medical pathologies.
* Multiparameter analysis of cell and protein functions is achievable through various AFM data outputs.

Conclusions:

* AFM represents a significant advancement for cell biology research.
* AFM has considerable potential for impact in biomedical research.
* The technique offers a powerful platform for multiparameter analysis of cellular and protein functions.