August 2012, Vol. 2 - Dimension FastScan Bio Atomic Force Microscope

Bruker’s introduces the Dimension FastScan Bio™ Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), which enables high-resolution investigation of biological dynamics, providing bio researchers access to new dynamics-based information that has not been previously available. Breakthrough innovations in the design of the FastScan Bio system have resulted in a fast-scanning AFM that allows temporal investigation under physiological operating environments in fluid, while exceeding the diffraction limits of optical microscopy. The system also introduces a new user interface that provides significant improvements in AFM ease of use and productivity for biologists. The combination of these and other innovative features on the performance-leading Dimension FastScan™ platform make FastScan Bio the first commercial AFM that can provide temporal resolution in frames-per-second for live biological sample observations.

FastScan Bio has been specifically designed for high-resolution, live-sample observation of interacting molecules, membrane proteins, DNA protein binding, inter-cellular signaling and many other dynamic biological studies. The system delivers the scanning speed required for high-resolution spatiotemporal studies with the greatest simplicity ever seen in a commercial AFM system.

The FastScan Bio system utilizes a revolutionary XYZ scanner designed to operate at high-speed rates while delivering extremely low drift and low noise, along with a small volume fluid sample cell and a user interface that removes operational complexity. Other features include an industry-proven fast scanner, automated laser and detector alignment, an easy sample engaging process, and the capability to investigate samples in a droplet of solution or its 60 micro-liter sample cell.

FastScan Bio provides researchers a significant advancement in operator usability, and significant improvement in time to data, EOU and new sample. This is a major turning point, up until now only a small, very specialized group had access to technology and equipment to investigate biological dynamics at the nanoscale. Now, with FastScan Bio advanced studies of the dynamics behind protein, DNA, RNA, membrane, cell and tissue interactions is an easy possibility for mainstream biology research.

Key Features and Benefits

• Simplified sample engaging and controls for immediate imaging
• Real-time panning, zooming and scanning
• Feature tracking and Movie creation tool
• Micro-volume fluid cell with controlled fluid exchange

Find out more about Dimension FastScan Bio at our website, or click here to download a brochure. If you have a question, please contact us at productinfo@bruker-nano.com.