Atomic force microscopy for protein nanotechnology

Methods Mol Biol. 2013:996:323-67. doi: 10.1007/978-1-62703-354-1_19.

Abstract

This chapter introduces atomic force microscopy (AFM) as an important tool for protein nanotechnology. A short review of AFM-based imaging, mapping, and spectroscopy of protein samples is given. AFM imaging of β-lactoglobulin nanofibrils in air is demonstrated. Basic concepts of AFM are described. Protocols for β-lactoglobulin nanofibrils and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) samples preparation are defined. The operation of the microscope is described using MWCNT and the NanoScope E instrument in contact mode as an example. Nanostructure manipulation based on AFM nano-sweeping is demonstrated.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Lactoglobulins / chemistry
  • Lactoglobulins / ultrastructure
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force / methods*
  • Nanofibers / chemistry
  • Nanofibers / ultrastructure
  • Nanotechnology
  • Nanotubes, Carbon / chemistry
  • Nanotubes, Carbon / ultrastructure
  • Particle Size
  • Solutions
  • Surface Properties
  • User-Computer Interface

Substances

  • Lactoglobulins
  • Nanotubes, Carbon
  • Solutions