Super-resolution imaging of living tissues achieved by multi-confocal image scanning microscopy

Their paper is published in National Science Review.

Recent advancements have demonstrated that MC-ISM can significantly transform techniques. By integrating confocal scanning with structural illumination super-resolution, this approach allows researchers to achieve superior imaging capabilities essential for studying living tissues.

Current imaging techniques struggle to balance spatial resolution and phototoxicity while capturing rapid biological processes in living tissues. The traditional confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) is limited by the trade-off between pinhole size and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).

MC-ISM addresses these challenges by integrating confocal scanning imaging with structural illumination super-resolution, allowing for enhanced three-dimensional imaging capabilities in biological specimens. This advancement enables researchers to capture the intricate dynamics of living organisms with unprecedented clarity and minimal damage.

The research team utilized MC-ISM technology to perform three-color 3D super-resolution imaging on sections of the mouse kidney. The technique operates within a volume of 66.5 μm × 66.5 μm × 12 μm, achieving an axial interval of 150 nm.

Schematic of the MC-ISM optical path and results of pixel reassignment (PR) and frame reduction reconstruction. Credit: National Science Review (2024). DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwae303

MC-ISM imaging results of mouse kidney tissue sections and zebrafish. Credit: National Science Review (2024). DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwae303

MC-ISM imaging results of mitochondrial dynamics in animal cells and Arabidopsis hypocotyl plant tissue. Credit: National Science Review (2024). DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwae303