AFM height images and particle size analysis of plasmid DNA adsorbed on mica before and after condensation with poly(NLS) or poly(HRP). (a) Free plasmid DNA in air (z range = 5 nm). (b)–(e) Representative spheroid, rod, and flower-like poly(HRP)/DNA condensates (N/P = 4, DNA concentration at 2.0×10−3 g/L) imaged in deionized water (z range = 20 nm). The insets in (c) and (d) show the sectional height profile, particle height, and the lateral dimension along the dotted line of the spheroid and rod respectively.