Single-molecule atomic force microscopy studies of microbial pathogens

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has become a powerful multifunctional platform for probing microbial cell surfaces, one molecule at a time, thereby uncovering biophysical properties and interactions that are otherwise not accessible. Single-cell force spectroscopy has been widely used to quantify the adhesion forces of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi, whereas single-molecule force spectroscopy has enabled the functional analysis and imaging of individual receptors on cell surfaces. In addition, AFM has been instrumental in assessing the inhibition of adhesion of pathogens by carbohydrates, antibodies, and peptides, thus showing promise for antiadhesion therapy.