Equipment
The PICMI AFM core facility is equipped with:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7KI9vv2zo4
This instrument is thought for high resolution AFM microscopy. It is dedicated to the study of small samples (DNA, RNA, proteins, nucleoprotein complexes, cellular membranes). It allows several operating modes (contact, tapping, peak force tapping) and can be used in air and in liquid.
This AFM has three different scanners used depending on the sample size:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VS7o6JIqJAM
This instrument is thought for the study of larger samples (metaphase chromosomes, cells, tissues). It allows several operating modes (contact, tapping, peak force tapping) and can be used in air and in liquid. Scanner available ≥ 150μm XY, ≥ 20μm Z.
This AFM is coupled to a Leica Microsystems DMI 6000B inverted optical microscope (bright-field, phase-contrast, epifluorescence). By the coupling it is possible to pinpoint the area of interest and to take advantage of both the techniques. With the Bioscope Catalyst it is possible to work in a controlled liquid environment (temperature and composition).