Nanofluidic Imaging of Bacterial Cells

Surface properties of microbes are relevant to illness spread, biofouling, and more. Here, we present a method to study the membrane of a common cold-causing bacteria using a nanofluidic-based microscope. Our method could help broader studies to inform on bacteria-repellent surface coatings to prevent the spread of illness. We show a high-resolution image of bacteria cells (above, on left) as well as a voltage-dependent height recording (above, on right). This effect reflects membrane properties of the surface-adhered cells. We are currently working to publishing this research, with more details to be shared.