Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and its applications to bone-related research

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biophysics

Background:

• Bone's hierarchical structure, composed of organic and inorganic materials, provides load-bearing capacity.
• Bone remodeling, influenced by mechanotransduction, alters bone structure and properties.
• Understanding bone at multiple length scales is crucial for regenerative medicine and disease treatment.

Approach:

• This review details Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) principles, including tip-surface interactions and operation modes like PeakForce Tapping.
• It covers contact adhesion theories essential for interpreting AFM data.
• The review systematically examines AFM applications in bone research.

Key Points:

• AFM provides atomic resolution imaging of bone's surface morphology.
• AFM enables characterization of mechanical properties through contact indentation and other tests.
• Sub-resonance tapping modes offer advanced capabilities for analyzing biological samples.

Conclusions:

• AFM is a powerful tool for elucidating the hierarchical structures and mechanical properties of bone.
• Its application advances our understanding of bone biology, mechanotransduction, and bone-related pathologies.
• AFM facilitates detailed analysis of bone at nano- and micro-scales.