AFM scanning a living cell.

[Craig]

Has anyone used an Atomic Force Microscope on fluids?

My friend is trying to scan a cell using AFM, as part of his PhD. His having a lot of trouble though.

Does anyone have any advice for my friend?

[C Elegans]

Hello Craig, nice to see you! What a funny question to see here at Gamebanshee Unfortunately I've only used an AFM once, when I was a student, and yes, I do remember it was quite difficult. Since using an AFM is such a highly specialised thing, I would recommend that your friend either contact the manufacturer, or a senior researcher in the field. Isn't his supervisor able to help him?

[Craig]

I thkn he has, but not had much help. Last week he killed all the cells, this time they survived but he hasn't got an image form them.

[C Elegans]

Well, it's not that easy to keep cells alive. If he is not able to get any support from his supervisor (which he should!) I guess the best he can do is to contact other people in the field. He can just search Pubmed to find out who is doing similar work as himself, and contact those persons? Lots of people worldwide study living cells with AFM. What about this guy for instance, he's even in the UK:
Force microscopy: applications in ... - Google Böcker

[Craig]

I thk his supervisor has helped but not much. I don't really know enough to tell you what variables he's changed and who suggested what.

I will make sure he finds out about this Pumbed, and the other link, thanks

How're you and your studies/work/something?

[Vicsun]

I used an AFM a few times about a year ago when working on my bachelor degree, which means that your friend is likely more familiar with the instrument than I am. That said, "a lot of trouble" is a little vague. Being stuck on a problem can be incredibly frustrating, but there's not much to be done, except for putting more time and effort (it seems Sisyphean at times), while summoning help from anyone willing to offer it.

[Craig]

He has been putting lots of time into it. Really I was looking for tips and tricks, maybe ways of getting cells to stay still, or image better.