Bioimprint

The atomic force microscope (AFM) has the ability to image cells at a resolution far superior to optics. However, difficulties associated with imaging soft biological material using a sharp probe inhibits its utilization as an effective nano-imaging device in biology. Here we introduce a new method, termed bioimprint, which integrates soft lithography directly with biological materials to create replica cell impressions in a robust polymer medium. Bioimprint is designed to facilitate topographic analysis of cells by atomic force microscopy. The high resolution transfer of cell topography is demonstrated by imaging dimple-depressions on the membrane. At these positions cells secrete their contents through a process known as exocytosis. Currently, bioimprint is being used to directly evaluate the effect of different stimuli on pituitary cells by imaging and evaluating the number and density of dimple-depressions that form on the membrane. Bioimprint has proved a useful process to facilitate nanoscale cellular investigations where traditional optical methods are limited and current AFM imaging methodologies are slow.