High-resolution, in situ imaging makes scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) a versatile tool for investigations of materials and biological interfaces.<sup>1-4</sup> The non-invasive nature of SICM imaging enhances study of nano-sized biological materials and cells in physiological status. The imaging principle of SICM utilizes the ionic current signal which flows through the small gap that forms between a nanopipette and surface as a feedback signal, and thus typical applications of SICM require operation in an electrolytic solution.<br/>In this study, we describe a new mode of feedback from SICM, referred to here as Biphasic-SICM (BP-SICM), to overcome inherent limitations SICM imaging. BP-SICM can acquire topographic images regardless of electrolyte, allowing operation in deionized water or solvents (e.g. ethanol) with no supporting electrolyte. We will describe the current-distance relationship for BP-SICM and demonstrate lateral and vertical imaging resolution of acquired by comparison of atomic force micrographs of collagen fibrils. A unique aspect of BP-SICM is a positive-feedback mode that has extended working distances. The advantages and disadvantages, as well as future applications of BP-SICM will be discussed in detail.

Biphasic-scanning ion conductance microscopy (BP-SICM)

256th National Meeting (2018)

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