The Atomic Force Microscopy Webinar Series:

Pharmaceutical Applications of the Atomic Force Microscope

OVERVIEW

For over a decade, atomic force microscopy has been explored as a research tool in the Pharmaceutical Industry. The performed applications are diverse and cover the broad experimental capabilities of AFM. Once a biologically active molecule is selected for further development, the solid state properties of the material are in focus. In addition to well established methods that characterize the bulk properties of the material, AFM has been gaining interest as a technique for surface analysis of both API and excipients. In particular, the characterization of API—API and API—excipient physico-chemical interactions have been addressed with AFM methods to support various types of formulations. Furthermore, the nano-mechanical properties of particles have been probed with AFM in order to provide insight into milling performance as well as other powder processing issues. Though the AFM has not made the leap to the status of a Standard Tool in this area, we expect that recent and future advances in AFM technology will enable routine applications of AFM in the pharmaceutical industry.

In this webinar, the class of problems for which the AFM can bring unique capability to drug development will be explored.

PRESENTERS

Dr. Johannes Kindt, Senior Applications Scientist, Veeco Instruments, Inc.

Dr. Matthew Lamm, Senior Scientist, Merck Research Laboratories