Characterization of Inter- and Intramolecular Interactions of Amyloid Fibrils by AFM-Based Single-Molecule Force Spectroscopy

Figure 1

(a) Schematic principle of single-molecular force microscopy, (b) approaching force curve, and (c) retracting force curve. In the schematic of Figure (a), (1)–(4) show the approaching progress. (1) AFM tip moves forward to sample. (2) AFM tip contacts sample surface. (3) AFM tip indents sample. (4) AFM tip reaches the defined deflection value; (6)–(9) show the retracting progress, molecules firstly adsorb on AFM tip and then are gradually pulled away from substrate and finally rupture from substrate or from AFM tip.

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(b)

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