IBM today announced that researchers at its Almaden
Research Center have demonstrated
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magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to visualize nanoscale objects. This technique brings MRI capability to the nanoscale level for the first time and represents a major milestone in the quest to build a microscope that could "see" individual
atoms in three dimensions, according to
IBM.
Using Magnetic Resonance Force
microscopy (MFRM), IBM researchers have demonstrated two-dimensional imaging of objects as small as 90 nanometers, a key advancement on the path of 3D imaging at the atomic scale. Such imaging could ultimately provide a better understanding of how
proteins function, which in turn may
lead to more efficient
drug discovery and development.
MFRM offers imaging sensitivity that is 60,000 times better than current
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology. MFRM uses what is known as force detection to overcome the sensitivity limitations of conventional MRI to view structures that would otherwise be too small to be detected.
To achieve this, the research team developed specialized magnetic tips for their microscope, optimizing their ability to manipulate and detect the very weak magnetism of
atomic nuclei. Conventional medical MRI typically operates on a scale at least 1,000 times coarser; even the most specialized MRI
microscopy is limited to about 3 micrometers, or 3,000 nanometers.
This achievement could eventually have major impact on the study of materials - ranging from
proteins and
pharmaceuticals to
integrated circuits - for which a detailed understanding of the atomic structure is essential. Knowing the exact
location of specific atoms within tiny nanoelectronic structures, for example, would enhance designers' insight into manufacture and performance. The ability to directly image the detailed atomic structure of proteins would aid the development of new
drugs.
Original publication: H. J. Mamin, M. Poggio, C. L. Degen, D. Rugar; "Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging with 90-nm resolution."; Nature nanotechnology 2007.