Super-resolution Microscopy for Live Cell Imaging (2017-048)

This method of super-resolution microscopy uses subtracted interleaved solid and doughnut-shaped laser pulses to improve spatial resolution, resulting in real-time imaging of live microscopic organisms. The live cell imaging market has an estimated worth of $3.57 billion and is expected to grow due to increased government funding and the demand for high-content screening microscopy techniques in drug discovery. Conventional super-resolution microscopy requires high light dosage or special dyes to achieve improved spatial resolution, which can lead to damage in live cells during the imaging process. Clemson University researchers have developed a method of super-resolution microscopy using low power laser pulses that is compatible with an unrestricted menu of dyes or chromophores, allowing for imaging of live samples without causing damage to the cellular architecture. This innovative use of low power settings makes this technology promising for the future of biological research.