Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy in Bionanotechnology: Current Advances and Future Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biophysics
• Surface Science

Background:

• Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) is a scanning probe technique.
• It measures local electrical surface potential (ESP) with high lateral resolution.
• KPFM is crucial for studying charge distribution and work function differences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in KPFM for biological applications.
• To analyze challenges and emerging strategies for ESP measurement in biomaterials.
• To explore KPFM's implications in nanotechnology and biomedical innovation.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing KPFM for nanometre-resolution analysis of biomolecular systems.
• Investigating ESP characteristics in diverse biological entities (proteins, DNA, cells).
• Studying biomolecular nanolayers on nanomaterials (gold nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes).

Main Results:

• KPFM reveals ESP in single molecules, cellular structures, and biomolecular nanolayers.
• Advancements expand KPFM's capability for detailed biomolecular interaction studies.
• The technique demonstrates transformative potential in bio-nanotechnology.

Conclusions:

• KPFM is a versatile tool for elucidating biomolecular interactions at unprecedented resolutions.
• It holds significant implications for diagnostics, biosensing, and therapeutic development.
• Ongoing research addresses challenges to further enhance KPFM's sensitivity and resolution for biomedical applications.