Feeling sugar-protein interactions using carbon nanotubes : a molecular recongition force microscopy study

Abstract

This thesis consists of eight chapters. In Chapters 2 and 3, the

application of AFM to biological systems is explored, both in air and in

liquid. Chapter 2 deals with atomic force microscopy in air and, as an

example, contains a study of filaments found in dividing yeast cells. Chapter 3 describes atomic force microscopy in liquid, both in contact mode and in tapping mode. In Chapters 4, 5, and 6 we discuss all steps that have to be taken in order to make the high-resolution MRFM experiment described in Chapter 7 possible. As a first step, Chapter 4 provides a method for immobilizing well-separated single molecules for AFM studies in liquid. Next, in Chapter 5, the use of carbon nanotubes as AFM tips for molecular recognition force microscopy is discussed, and a description is given of the fabrication process of single-walled and multi-walled carbon nanotube AFM tips. In Chapter 6, the last step is discussed: chemical characterization and functionalization of carbon nanotubes. In Chapter 7, all steps come together, and first results of molecular recognition force microscopy experiments on pea lectin and on mannan binding lectin are shown and discussed. To conclude, Chapter 8 provides a summarizing discussion and an outlook.