Investigation of biological macromolecules using atomic force microscope-based techniques [Elektronische Ressource] / von Christian A. Bippes

    Investigation of Biological Macromolecules Using Atomic Force Microscope‐Based Techniques  Dissertation zur Erlangung des akademischen Grades Doctor rerum naturalium (Dr. rer. nat.) vorgelegt der Fakultät Mathematik und Naturwissenschaften an der Technischen Universität Dresden von Christian A. Bippes geboren am 19.11.1978 in Karlsruhe Datum der Einreichung: 18.05.2009 1. Gutachter: Prof. Dr. Daniel J. Müller 2. Gutachter: Prof. Dr. Dimitrios Fotiadis Datum der Disputation: 18.08.2009     Meinen Eltern.    SUMMARY The atomic force microscope (AFM) provides a powerful instrument for investigating and manipulating biological samples down to the subnanometer scale. In contrast to other microscopy methods, AFM does not require labeling, staining, nor fixation of samples and allows the specimen to be fully hydrated in buffer solution during the experiments. Moreover, AFM clearly compares in resolution to other techniques. In general, the AFM can be operated in an imaging or a force spectroscopy mode. In the present work, advantage was taken of this versatility to investigate single biomolecules and biomolecular assemblies. A novel approach to investigate the visco-elastic behavior of biomolecules under force was established, using dextran as an example.