Experimental and theoretical investigation of Young's modulus of liver cancer tissue using rectangular, V-shaped and dagger cantilevers of an atomic force microscope

The liver is one of the most important organs of the body, which is responsible for the metabolism of proteins and detoxification of the body. Examining tissue and studying its mechanical properties can be a platform for the early diagnosis of cancer and then the identification of treatment methods. An atomic force microscope is a very powerful tool in imaging and identifying the mechanical properties of nanoparticles in more advanced stages for the manipulation of these particles. In this research, Young's modulus of liver cancer tissue was investigated using an atomic force microscope and using three types of cantilevers with rectangular, V-shaped, and dagger geometries. Then, using the Hertz contact model, the range of Young's modulus was simulated for all three types of atomic force microscope cantilevers. The results of experimental work and theoretical simulations were compared. Finally, in order to validate, the results obtained in this study were compared with other studies. The obtained results showed that the use of a V-shaped cantilever achieves a more accurate range of Young's modulus. Also, Young's modulus for liver cancer tissue was obtained in the range of 800 to 1500 pascals.