Scanning force microscopy on live cultured cells: imaging and force-versus-distance investigations

Extensive measurements with the scanning force microscope on living cells in their native liquid environment are described with the purpose of critically assessing the extent of the interaction between the SFM tip and the (soft) cell materials and the effect of such interaction on topographic information. Images are obtained under various force conditions and systematically correlated with force-versus-distance curves. As a result, detailed indications about tip indentation are given, thickness estimates deduced and identification of submembranous cytoplasmic structures suggested.