AFM-coupled microscale radiofrequency probe for magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy

1. A method of using a AFM/NMR probe, the method comprising the steps of:

injecting a sample to be analyzed with magnetic particles;

introducing a probe into proximity with the sample, the probe capable of both transmitting and sensing electromagnetic radiation;

generating a magnetic field via the probe; and

adjusting the magnitude of the magnetic field to manipulate the magnetic particles within the sample.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the probe further comprises:

a beam including a distal end, a proximal end, a top surface, and a bottom surface, the beam being attached to an anchor at the proximal end and further comprising a tip extending substantially perpendicular from the bottom surface at or near the distal end;

a coil including at least one turn mounted to the top surface of the beam at or near the distal end opposite the tip; and

and a piezoelectric element attached to the top surface of the beam.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic particles are injected inside a nucleus of the sample.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic particles are injected outside a nucleus of the sample.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of generating a magnetic field comprises applying an electric current to the coil.

6. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:

moving the probe until the tip contacts a surface of the sample;

scanning the surface with the tip by moving the tip across the surface of the sample; and

measuring a deflection of the probe.

7. The method of claim 5 , wherein the step of generating the magnetic field occurs in multiple locations across the surface of the sample.

8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the magnetic field comprises multiple pulses of electromagnetic radiation.

9. The method of claim 6 further comprising the step of:

determining biophysical, biochemical, and functional property characteristics of the sample contacted by the tip of the probe.