Recent advances in AFM-based biological characterization and applications at multiple levels.

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is crucial for high-resolution analysis of biological samples.
• Its applications span biomedical, bioengineering, and drug research, enabling mechanical and morphological characterization.
• AFM allows for in-situ measurements in physiological environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of recent advances in AFM for biomechanical property characterization.
• To cover multi-scale biological samples from molecular to tissue levels.
• To discuss fundamental principles, models, experimental findings, and future directions.

Main Methods:

• Review of fundamental principles of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).
• Discussion of AFM-based models for characterizing biomechanical properties (elasticity, viscosity).
• Analysis of experimental findings from AFM studies on biomaterials.

Main Results:

• AFM enables detailed mechanical and morphological characterization of biological systems.
• The technique is applicable across various scales, from molecules to tissues.
• Recent advances have expanded the scope and precision of AFM bioapplications.

Conclusions:

• AFM is a powerful tool for understanding biomechanics across biological scales.
• Continued advancements in AFM will drive significant discoveries in bio-related fields.
• The technique holds promise for future applications in medicine and biotechnology.