Atomic Force microscopy for cutting edge biotechnology in the nanoscale

An Atomic Force Microscope is capable of imaging nanostructures and biomolecules in air or liquid environments, and measure their mechanical properties. Probing bacteria, cells, enzymes and other bio- and nanostructures in liquid environments at the nanoscale will help us understand how these work: We will be able to study how antimicrobial peptides affect the bacteria surface, and how specific molecules on this surface can lead to multi-drug resistance. We will be able to improve enzyme function by studying how these interact with solid surfaces. We can look at protein assemblies and their mechanical properties, important in the field of neurodegenerative diseases. And we can look at nanostructure interaction with cells and tissues and create novel sensors for diagnostic applications.