Modification of supported lipid membranes by atomic force microscopy.
The atomic force microscope (AFM) was used to structurally modify supported lipid bilayers in a controlled quantitative manner. By increasing the force applied by the AFM tip, lipid was removed from the scanned area, leaving a cut through the lipid bilayer. Cuts were repaired with the AFM by scanning the region with a controlled force and driving lipid back into the cut. A slow self-annealing of cuts was also observed.
Center for Biomolecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375-5000 USA.
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Brandow
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Turner
B R
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Ratna
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Gaber