Abstract
We are investigating the use of nanoscale imaging technologies that might help in the fundamental understanding of cell function and lead to early diagnosis of diseases at a single cell and molecular level. A new method has been developed that integrates nanoimprint lithography directly with biological materials to create replica cell impressions in robust storage medium to facilitate topographical analysis using Atomic Force Microscopy. Termed Bioimprint (TM), soft lithography techniques are used to transfer precise cell topography into polymeric composite for imaging in harsh probing or electron beam environments. By creating a permanent biological print that is captured in a specific moment of time, a recorded response of cellular events can be stored. The high resolution transfer of this process is illustrated by imaging membrane morphological structures consist with exocytosis, in pituitary cells. The integration of soft lithography and biological materials presents a novel method for the study and detection of biological systems at the nano scale. Applications of this technique to cancer cells has also been investigated.