How to build a « home-made » near-field optical microscope to observe single molecules

Key Points

• The optical microscope allows for the observation of single molecules, enhancing understanding of molecular interactions and behaviors.
• Constructing this device involves using accessible materials, making sophisticated imaging techniques more available.
• The process integrates principles of photonics and scattering to achieve high resolution in imaging scenarios.
• This method supports exploration in molecular biology, potentially impacting various fields like biochemistry and nanotechnology.

Abstract