Living cell study at the single-molecule and single-cell levels by atomic force microscopy

Area of Science:

• Nanobiology
• Nanomedicine
• Cellular Biophysics

Background:

• Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a versatile tool for nanoscale investigations.
• Studying living cells at the molecular level is crucial for understanding biological processes.
• Recent advancements enable high-resolution studies of cellular structures and functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent progress in applying AFM to living mammalian cells.
• To highlight AFM's capabilities in single-molecule and single-cell analysis.
• To discuss AFM's potential in nanobiology and nanomedicine.

Main Methods:

• Nanoscale imaging of cell membrane structures using AFM.
• AFM-based single-molecule force spectroscopy for ligand-receptor interactions.
• Characterization of cell mechanical properties in physiological environments.
• Molecular manipulation of cellular processes via AFM.

Main Results:

• AFM enables detailed imaging of cell membrane topography.
• Single-molecule force spectroscopy reveals binding strength and dynamics.
• Cellular mechanics can be accurately measured in living cells.
• AFM facilitates targeted manipulation of cellular functions.

Conclusions:

• Living-cell AFM provides novel insights into molecular mechanisms of cell function and disease.
• AFM facilitates understanding drug effects at the single-cell level.
• AFM-based approaches can lead to new single-cell-based diagnostic strategies.