Applications of AFM articles from across Nature Portfolio

The mechanism of RCD-1 regulated cell death in fungal cells is unknown. Here, the authors use AFM to uncover two mechanisms by which RCD-1 proteins form pores in lipid membranes, and discover a membrane bending activity

A high-sensitivity turn-on fluorescence H₂S sensor has been developed via hybrid molecule nano-array. This nano-array features a small reaction volume, enabling a broad detection range and a detection limit of 1 fM using a 10 μL solution.

This Review details the use of multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles in advanced magnetic imaging modalities and therapeutic hyperthermia. The potential of magnetic nanoparticles for imaging-guided precision heating of tumours and the need for integrated magnetic imaging and heating platforms are highlighted.

Radiotherapy (RT) faces challenges like hypoxia-induced tumor resistance and weak antitumor immune responses. This study developed a nanosystem using mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), R837, and manganese peroxide (Mn/ZnO₂). The MSN@R837-Mn/ZnO₂ nanoparticles showed precise tumor targeting, controlled drug release in acidic conditions, and enhanced MRI sensitivity, boosting RT efficacy by reducing hypoxia and immunosuppression. Tumor cells treated with RT and these nanoparticles had less oxidative stress, improved hypoxia, and normalized blood vessels. Remarkably, all mice in the RT+PD-1+MSN@R837-Mn/ZnO₂ group achieved complete tumor regression and extended survival, with no toxicity observed, indicating its potential for cancer imaging and treatment.

Single-cell force spectroscopy reveals rapid, biphasic integrin activation and reinforcement of cell–matrix bonds during the initial steps of fibroblast adhesion.

DNA origami nanostructures were utilized to replicate a seed pattern that resulted in the growth of populations of nanostructures. Exponential growth could be controlled by environmental conditions depending on the preferential requirements of each population.

Isoelectric points of small samples of proteins can now be measured using atomic force microscopy and substrates with a known charge.

The ambiguous barrier mechanism of nuclear pore complexes has now been resolved through structural analysis with high-speed atomic force microscopy.

Nanomechanical sensors can now detect femtomolar concentrations of analytes within minutes without the need to passivate the underlying cantilever surface.

The response of bacteria to antibiotics can be quickly assessed by monitoring the fluctuations of cantilevers coated with the bacteria.