Abstract
Supported lipid bilayers offer a diverse set of substrates for AFM investigations of both water-soluble samples and integral membrane proteins. Although their amphipathic nature is necessary for the latter specimens, it is their robustness and easily changed surface characteristics that make these surfaces particularly attractive for the former ones. When starting any AFM investigation of water-soluble biological complexes, it is probably best to try mica first, owing to its remarkable effectiveness with a wide range of samples. Yet, if mica should prove inadequate, supported lipid bilayers are, as demonstrated here, a sensible second choice.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Aluminum Silicates / chemistry
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Cholera Toxin / chemistry
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Cholera Toxin / metabolism
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Cytoplasmic Vesicles / chemistry
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Cytoplasmic Vesicles / metabolism*
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Cytoplasmic Vesicles / ultrastructure*
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Ligands
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Lipid Bilayers / chemistry*
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Membrane Lipids / chemistry
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Membrane Lipids / metabolism
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Microscopy, Atomic Force / instrumentation
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Microscopy, Atomic Force / methods*
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Proteins / metabolism
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Proteins / ultrastructure
Substances
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Aluminum Silicates
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Ligands
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Lipid Bilayers
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Membrane Lipids
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Proteins
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Cholera Toxin
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mica