Topographic imaging of convoluted surface of live cells by scanning ion conductance microscopy in a standing approach mode

• DOI: 10.1039/c002607g
• Publication Date: 2010-05-18T14:30:20Z
• Authors: Yasufumi Takahashi; Yumi Murakami; Kuniaki Nagamine; Hitoshi Shiku; Shigeo Aoyagi; Tomoyuki Yasukawa; Makoto Kanzaki; Tomokazu Matsue
• Keywords: Pipette; Live cell imaging; SIGNAL (programming language)

Scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) using a nanopipette as probe and ionic current feedback signal was introduced novel technique to study live cells in physiological environment. To avoid contact between the pipette tip during conventional lateral scanning mode, we adopted standing approach (STA) mode which moved vertically first then retracted from cell surface at each measurement point on an XY plane. The STA ensured non-contact imaging of topography for wide range uneven substrates (500 x 300 microm 5 microm). We also used field-programmable gate array (FPGA) board enhance distance regulation. FPGA dramatically increased speed decreased time (450 s per image) with enhanced accuracy quality images. evaluate potential SICM, carried out convoluted various scan ranges estimated spatial resolutions these