In this minireview, we discuss how atomic force microscopy techniques have enabled to shed light on the molecular forces at play during staphylococcal adhesion. 
atomic force microscopy
Specific highlights include the study of the binding mechanisms of adhesion molecules by means of single-molecule force spectroscopy, the measurement of the forces involved in whole cell interactions using single-cell force spectroscopy, and the probing of the nanobiophysical properties of living bacteria via multiparametric imaging. 
single-molecule force spectroscopy
Specific highlights include the study of the binding mechanisms of adhesion molecules by means of single-molecule force spectroscopy, the measurement of the forces involved in whole cell interactions using single-cell force spectroscopy, and the probing of the nanobiophysical properties of living bacteria via multiparametric imaging. 
single-cell force spectroscopy
Specific highlights include the study of the binding mechanisms of adhesion molecules by means of single-molecule force spectroscopy, the measurement of the forces involved in whole cell interactions using single-cell force spectroscopy, and the probing of the nanobiophysical properties of living bacteria via multiparametric imaging. 
multiparametric imaging