The Detection of Long-Chain Bio-Markers Using Atomic Force Microscopy

The detection of long-chain biomolecules on mineral surfaces is presented using an atomic force microscope (AFM). This is achieved by using the AFM’s ability to manipulate molecules and measure forces at the pico-newton scale. We show that a highly characteristic force-distance signal is produced when the AFM tip is used to detach long-chain molecules from a surface. This AFM force spectroscopy method is demonstrated on bio-films, spores, fossils and mineral surfaces. The method works with AFM imaging and correlated tip enhanced infrared spectroscopy. The use of AFM force spectroscopy to detect this class of long chain bio-markers has applications in paleontology, life detection and planetary science.