Abstract
Cell morphology, electrical and mechanical functions are of great significance in cell biology. However, traditional cell characterization methods are not suitable for study of living cells in a non-invasive, in situ and micro/nano-scaled way. As a new type of scanning probe microscopy, scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) enables non-invasive, high-resolution and real-time imaging of living cells based on its non-contact scanning mode and usage of nanopipette as its probe. In recent years, SICM has been widely applied in cell biology and cell characterizations. This review mainly introduces the SICM applications in cell characterizations. First, we introduce the instrumental composition, working principle and three work modes of SICM, and compare the strengths and weakness of the three working modes. Then the applications of SICM in cell morphology, cellular electrical and mechanical properties are described in detail. In addition, in contrast to the traditional cell characterization methods, SICM has the distinct advantages in in situ characterization of cells. Finally, the challenges of SICM in cell characterizations are discussed and its future development is proposed.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
