"Atomic-Scale Imaging of DNA Using Scanning Tunneling Microscopy," R. J. Driscoll, M. G. Youngquist, and J. D. Baldeschwieler, Nature, 346, 6281 (1990).

Description:

The scanning tunnelling microscope (STM) has been used to visualize DNA.  Images of single-stranded DNA have shown that submolecular resolution is possible. Here is shown atomic-resolution imaging of duplex DNA. This topographic STM image of uncoated duplex DNA on a graphite substrate was obtained in ultra-high vacuum and that shows the double-helical structure, base pairs, and atomic-scale substructure.  The best images to date of DNA on graphite have been obtained with the Caltech STM system.  The image on the left shows a computer generated image of the theoretical structure of the DNA, which is the real STM image on the right.  The total width of the DNA molecule imaged is ~23 angstroms.  Further investigation of this phenomenon should lead to a better understanding of the physics of imaging adsorbates with the STM and may prove useful in sequencing DNA.

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