Atomic force microscopy (AFM) application to diatom study: review and perspectives
Auteurs
A. T. Luís, D. Hlúbiková, V. Vaché, P. Choquet, L. Hoffmann, and L. Ector
Référence
Journal of Applied Phycology, vol. 29, no. 6, pp. 2989-3001, 2017
Description
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) allows high image resolution, based on slight differences in surface height and on imaging transparent structures, thus, is an excellent type of microscopy for imaging nano-sized objects, such as diatoms. Currently and since 1992, the number of publications applying AFM on diatom studies has increased significantly. Our study considers different aspects related with AFM and diatom samples preparation, AFM types and its application in studies of taxonomy, biomineral formation, ultrastructure, mucilage layers, and micromechanical properties. We also present new AFM data highlighting the taxonomical importance of Amphipleura pellucida. From our knowledge, it is the first general review that compiles all the works carried out on Atomic force microscopy (AFM) applied to diatoms, highlighting the AFM advantages regarding the study of these microorganisms as a whole.
