FluidFM for single-cell biophysics

• Published in: Nano research Vol. 15; no. 2; pp. 773 - 786
• Main Authors: Li, Mi, Liu, Lianqing, Zambelli, Tomaso
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Beijing Tsinghua University Press 01.02.2022; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Atomic force microscopy; Atomic/Molecular Structure and Spectra; Biomechanics; Biomedicine; Biophysics; Biotechnology; Chemistry and Materials Science; Condensed Matter Physics; Electrophysiology; Materials Science; Mechanical measurement; Microscopy; Nanotechnology; Progressions; Review Article; Spectroscopy; single-cell force spectroscopy; atomic force microscopy; single-cell electrophysiology; single-cell manipulation; fluidic force microscopy
• ISSN: 1998-0124; 1998-0000
• DOI: 10.1007/s12274-021-3573-y

Fluidic force microscopy (FluidFM), which combines atomic force microscopy (AFM) with microchanneled cantilevers connected to a pressure controller, is a technique allowing the realization of force-sensitive nanopipette under aqueous conditions. FluidFM has unique advantages in simultaneous three-dimensional manipulations and mechanical measurements of biological specimens at the micro-/nanoscale. Over the past decade, FluidFM has shown its potential in biophysical assays particularly in the investigations at single-cell level, offering novel possibilities for discovering the underlying mechanisms guiding life activities. Here, we review the utilization of FluidFM to address biomechanical and biophysical issues in the life sciences. Firstly, the fundamentals of FluidFM are represented. Subsequently, the applications of FluidFM for biophysics at single-cell level are surveyed from several facets, including single-cell manipulations, single-cell force spectroscopy, and single-cell electrophysiology. Finally, the challenges and perspectives for future progressions are provided.