Proceedings of the VIII. Linz Winter Workshop

This proceedings is a summary of the research presented at the IIX. Annual Linz Winter Workshop, held February 3rd to 6th, 2006, in Linz, Austria.
Traditionally, this meeting is focused on single molecule techniques in biophysics, bio-nano-technology, cell biology, and drug discovery. In following current trends and innovative perspectives in the single molecule field, the meeting has established as a spirited platform for information and discussions of technologies and applications in bioresearch, medical science, nano-technology and drug development.
Force and fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy methodologies including atomic force microscopy, optical tweezers, wide and near field fluorescence microscopy, and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy were in the mainstream of the presentations. The applications and innovations presented in this proceedings range from fast scanning force microscopy, mechanical unfolding studies of single proteins, DNA and polymer molecules to topographic and molecular recognition studies on isolated proteins and model and cell membranes, as well as on native systems such as membranes, cells, and viruses. Fluorescence microscopy mainly focused on live cell studies.