Label-Free Protein and Pathogen Detection Using the Atomic Force Microscope

Abstract

The atomic force microscope (AFM) uses a sharp micron-scale tip to scan and amplify surface features, providing exceptionally detailed topographical information with magnification on the order of ×10⁶. This instrument is used extensively for quality control in the computer and semiconductor industries and is becoming a progressively more important tool in the biological sciences. Advantages of the AFM for biological application include the ability to obtain information in a direct, label-free manner and the ability to image in solution, providing real-time data acquisition under physiologically relevant conditions. A novel application of the AFM currently under development combines its surface profiling capabilities with fixed immuno-capture using antibodies immobilized in a nanoarray format. This provides a distinctive platform for direct, label-free detection and characterization of viral particles and other pathogens.

Keywords

atomic force microscope nanoarray virus detection label-free detection

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