A Review of the Current State of Magnetic Force Microscopy to Unravel the Magnetic Properties of Nanomaterials Applied in Biological Systems and Future Directions for Quantum Technologies

Robert Winkler, Miguel Ciria, Margaret Ahmad, Harald Plank, Carlos Marcuello*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Magnetism plays a pivotal role in many biological systems. However, the intensity of the magnetic forces exerted between magnetic bodies is usually low, which demands the development of ultra-sensitivity tools for proper sensing. In this framework, magnetic force microscopy (MFM) offers excellent lateral resolution and the possibility of conducting single-molecule studies like other single-probe microscopy (SPM) techniques. This comprehensive review attempts to describe the paramount importance of magnetic forces for biological applications by highlighting MFM’s main advantages but also intrinsic limitations. While the working principles are described in depth, the article also focuses on novel micro- and nanofabrication procedures for MFM tips, which enhance the magnetic response signal of tested biomaterials compared to commercial nanoprobes. This work also depicts some relevant examples where MFM can quantitatively assess the magnetic performance of nanomaterials involved in biological systems, including magnetotactic bacteria, cryptochrome flavoproteins, and magnetic nanoparticles that can interact with animal tissues. Additionally, the most promising perspectives in this field are highlighted to make the reader aware of upcoming challenges when aiming toward quantum technologies.

Original languageEnglish
Article number2585
JournalNanomaterials
Volume13
Issue number18
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2023

Keywords

  • atomic force microscopy
  • biological systems
  • drug delivery
  • magnetic force microscopy
  • magnetic properties
  • magnetic tip fabrication
  • nanofabrication
  • quantum technologies
  • single-molecule studies

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemical Engineering
  • General Materials Science

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