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Preparation of Samples for Electron Microscopy

Preparation of Samples for Electron Microscopy

To be visualized by an electron microscope, either transmission or scanning, biological samples need to be fixed (stabilized) so the electron beam does not destroy them and dried thoroughly (desiccated/dehydrated) so the vacuum does not affect them. Fixation needs to be done as quickly as possible because the sample properties will start changing as soon as it is removed from its natural environment. For example, in a tissue sample, the oxygen levels begin decreasing, causing an altered...

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: May 30, 2026

Sample Preparation for Single Virion Atomic Force Microscopy and Super-resolution Fluorescence Imaging

Sample Preparation for Single Virion Atomic Force Microscopy and Super-resolution Fluorescence Imaging

Published on: January 2, 2014

[Biological sample preparation via self-assembly methods for atomic force microscopy studies].

Congzhou Wang¹, Wang Jianhua

¹College of Bicengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.

Sheng Wu Yi Xue Gong Cheng Xue Za Zhi = Journal of Biomedical Engineering = Shengwu Yixue Gongchengxue Zazhi

|July 22, 2011

Summary

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is vital for studying biological samples. This review covers self-assembly methods for preparing proteins, DNA, cells, and lipid films for non-destructive AFM analysis, discussing future trends.

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Last Updated: May 30, 2026

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Investigating Single Molecule Adhesion by Atomic Force Spectroscopy

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Published on: February 27, 2015

Area of Science:

Life Sciences
Biophysics
Nanotechnology

Context:

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is a key technique in life sciences for high-resolution imaging of biological samples.
Effective sample preparation is crucial for successful AFM analysis.
Self-assembly is a primary method for preparing biological samples for AFM.

Purpose:

To review common self-assembly methods for biological samples (proteins, lipid films, DNA, cells) used in AFM studies.
To discuss nondestructive substrate attachment techniques for these samples.
To explore future development trends in biological sample preparation for AFM.

Summary:

This paper reviews various self-assembly techniques for preparing biological specimens, including proteins, lipid films, DNA, and cells, for Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).
It details methods for attaching samples to substrates non-destructively, ensuring sample integrity.
The review also examines emerging trends and future directions in the field.

Impact:

Provides researchers with a comprehensive overview of essential sample preparation techniques for AFM.
Facilitates improved experimental design and data acquisition in biological AFM studies.
Highlights future research avenues for advancing AFM applications in life sciences.