Ultra-compliant thermal AFM probes for studying of cellular properties

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) can be used for a number of nanoscale biological studies. It opens the possibility to monitor cellular processes in physiological conditions with the ability to perform high resolution imaging and force measurements. However, analysis of the mechanical property of the living cells is difficult and the sensitivity is low. Conventional AFM probes use high-stiffness materials and therefore, it makes the force measurement on soft samples becoming more difficult. In this work an ultra-compliant AFM probe made of polyimide was used to provide an improved imaging and force measurement of cancer cells. The probe includes an embedded sensing element for thermal conductance characterization. The probe was used for thermal conductance and topographical mapping of biological cells. The probe allows for high speed imaging of cells in liquids.