scholarly journals Beginner’s guide to producing super-resolved images on a widefield fluorescence microscope

2020 ◽  
Vol 42 (4) ◽  
pp. 52-56
Author(s):  
Ilijana Vojnovic ◽  
Ulrike Endesfelder
Keyword(s):  
Fluorescence Microscopy ◽  
Sample Preparation ◽  
Single Molecule ◽  
Life Sciences ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Specialized Hardware ◽  
Microscopy Techniques ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

The development of super-resolution microscopy techniques, which are able to achieve resolutions in the nanometre range and as such allow the visualization of subcellular structures and dynamics, has considerably expanded the possibilities of fluorescence microscopy in the life sciences. While a majority of these techniques require highly specialized hardware, single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) can be implemented on conventional widefield fluorescence microscopes. Here, we describe what technical upgrades are necessary and discuss some of the difficulties that can be encountered during sample preparation and imaging.

scholarly journals Molecular resolution imaging by post-labeling expansion single-molecule localization microscopy (Ex-SMLM)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fabian U. Zwettler ◽  
Sebastian Reinhard ◽  
Davide Gambarotto ◽  
Toby D. M. Bell ◽  
Virginie Hamel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Electron Microscopy ◽  
Single Molecule ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Reference Structure ◽  
Positional Error ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Resolution Imaging ◽  
Endogenous Proteins ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

AbstractExpansion microscopy (ExM) enables super-resolution fluorescence imaging of physically expanded biological samples with conventional microscopes. By combining expansion microscopy (ExM) with single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) it is potentially possible to approach the resolution of electron microscopy. However, current attempts to combine both methods remained challenging because of protein and fluorophore loss during digestion or denaturation, gelation, and the incompatibility of expanded polyelectrolyte hydrogels with photoswitching buffers. Here we show that re-embedding of expanded hydrogels enables dSTORM imaging of expanded samples and demonstrate that post-labeling ExM resolves the current limitations of super-resolution microscopy. Using microtubules as a reference structure and centrioles, we demonstrate that post-labeling Ex-SMLM preserves ultrastructural details, improves the labeling efficiency and reduces the positional error arising from linking fluorophores into the gel thus paving the way for super-resolution imaging of immunolabeled endogenous proteins with true molecular resolution.

scholarly journals Systematic Tuning of Rhodamine Spirocyclization for Super-Resolution Microscopy

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicolas Lardon ◽  
Lu Wang ◽  
Aline Tschanz ◽  
Philipp Hoess ◽  
Mai Tran ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Single Molecule ◽  
Large Range ◽  
Dynamic Equilibrium ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Live Cell ◽  
Stimulated Emission ◽  
Important Class ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

Rhodamines are the most important class of fluorophores for applications in live-cell fluorescence microscopy. This is mainly because rhodamines exist in a dynamic equilibrium between a fluorescent zwitterion and a non-fluorescent but cell-permeable spirocyclic form. Different imaging applications require different positions of this dynamic equilibrium, which poses a challenge for the design of suitable probes. We describe here how the conversion of the ortho-carboxy moiety of a given rhodamine into substituted acyl benzenesulfonamides and alkylamides permits the systematic tuning of the equilibrium of spirocyclization with unprecedented accuracy and over a large range. This allows to transform the same rhodamine into either a highly fluorogenic and cell-permeable probe for live-cell stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy, or into a spontaneously blinking dye for single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM). We used this approach to generate differently colored probes optimized for different labeling systems and imaging applications.

scholarly journals Photoactivation of silicon rhodamines via a light-induced protonation

2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Michelle S. Frei ◽  
Philipp Hoess ◽  
Marko Lampe ◽  
Bianca Nijmeijer ◽  
Moritz Kueblbeck ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Single Molecule ◽  
Particle Tracking ◽  
Single Particle ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Spectroscopic Properties ◽  
Single Particle Tracking ◽  
Live Cell ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

Abstract Photoactivatable fluorophores are important for single-particle tracking and super-resolution microscopy. Here we present a photoactivatable fluorophore that forms a bright silicon rhodamine derivative through a light-dependent protonation. In contrast to other photoactivatable fluorophores, no caging groups are required, nor are there any undesired side-products released. Using this photoactivatable fluorophore, we create probes for HaloTag and actin for live-cell single-molecule localization microscopy and single-particle tracking experiments. The unusual mechanism of photoactivation and the fluorophore’s outstanding spectroscopic properties make it a powerful tool for live-cell super-resolution microscopy.

scholarly journals Visualizing multi-protein patterns at the synapse of neuronal tissue with DNA-assisted single-molecule localization microscopy

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kaarjel K. Narayanasamy ◽  
Aleksandar Stojic ◽  
Yunqing Li ◽  
Steffen Sass ◽  
Marina Hesse ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Single Molecule ◽  
Cell Biology ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Protein Patterns ◽  
Multiple Targets ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Neuronal Tissue ◽  
Tissue Sections ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

AbstractThe development of super-resolution microscopy (SRM) has widened our understanding of biomolecular structure and function in biological materials. Imaging multiple targets within a single area would elucidate their spatial localization relative to the cell matrix and neighboring biomolecules, revealing multi-protein macromolecular structures and their functional co-dependencies. SRM methods are, however, limited to the number of suitable fluorophores that can be imaged during a single acquisition as well as the loss of antigens during antibody washing and restaining for organic dye multiplexing. We report the visualization of multiple protein targets within the pre- and postsynapse in 350-400 nm thick neuronal tissue sections using DNA-assisted single-molecule localization microscopy. Using antibodies labeled with short DNA oligonucleotides, multiple targets are visualized successively by sequential exchange of fluorophore-labeled complementary oligonucleotides present in the imaging buffer. The structural integrity of the tissue is maintained owing to only a single labelling step during sample preparation. Multiple targets are imaged using a single laser wavelength, minimizing chromatic aberration. This method proved robust for multi-target imaging in semi-thin tissue sections, paving the way towards structural cell biology with single-molecule super-resolution microscopy.

scholarly journals DNA-Based Super-Resolution Microscopy: DNA-PAINT

Genes ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 9 (12) ◽  
pp. 621 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel Nieves ◽  
Katharina Gaus ◽  
Matthew Baker
Keyword(s):  
Single Molecule ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Cutting Edge ◽  
Cellular Proteins ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Nanoscale Topography ◽  
History Of ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Fluorescent Ligand ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

Super-resolution microscopies, such as single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM), allow the visualization of biomolecules at the nanoscale. The requirement to observe molecules multiple times during an acquisition has pushed the field to explore methods that allow the binding of a fluorophore to a target. This binding is then used to build an image via points accumulation for imaging nanoscale topography (PAINT), which relies on the stochastic binding of a fluorescent ligand instead of the stochastic photo-activation of a permanently bound fluorophore. Recently, systems that use DNA to achieve repeated, transient binding for PAINT imaging have become the cutting edge in SMLM. Here, we review the history of PAINT imaging, with a particular focus on the development of DNA-PAINT. We outline the different variations of DNA-PAINT and their applications for imaging of both DNA origamis and cellular proteins via SMLM. Finally, we reflect on the current challenges for DNA-PAINT imaging going forward.

scholarly journals Quantitative super-resolution single molecule microscopy dataset of YFP-tagged growth factor receptors

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tomáš Lukeš ◽  
Jakub Pospíšil ◽  
Karel Fliegel ◽  
Theo Lasser ◽  
Guy M. Hagen
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Growth Factor ◽  
Single Molecule ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Growth Factor Receptors ◽  
Data Sets ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Resolution Single ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

BackgroundSuper-resolution single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) is a method for achieving resolution beyond the classical limit in optical microscopes (approx. 200 nm laterally). Yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) has been used for super-resolution single molecule localization microscopy, but less frequently than other fluorescent probes. Working with YFP in SMLM is a challenge because a lower number of photons are emitted per molecule compared to organic dyes which are more commonly used. Publically available experimental data can facilitate development of new data analysis algorithms.FindingsFour complete, freely available single molecule super-resolution microscopy datasets on YFP-tagged growth factor receptors expressed in a human cell line are presented including both raw and analyzed data. We report methods for sample preparation, for data acquisition, and for data analysis, as well as examples of the acquired images. We also analyzed the SMLM data sets using a different method: super-resolution optical fluctuation imaging (SOFI). The two modes of analysis offer complementary information about the sample. A fifth single molecule super-resolution microscopy dataset acquired with the dye Alexa 532 is included for comparison purposes.ConclusionThis dataset has potential for extensive reuse. Complete raw data from SMLM experiments has typically not been published. The YFP data exhibits low signal to noise ratios, making data analysis a challenge. These data sets will be useful to investigators developing their own algorithms for SMLM, SOFI, and related methods. The data will also be useful for researchers investigating growth factor receptors such as ErbB3.

scholarly journals Fix your membrane receptor imaging: Actin cytoskeleton and CD4 membrane organization disruption by chemical fixation

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pereira Pedro M. ◽  
David Albrecht ◽  
Caron Jacobs ◽  
Mark Marsh ◽  
Jason Mercer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Actin Cytoskeleton ◽  
Single Molecule ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Receptor Imaging ◽  
Chemical Fixation ◽  
Membrane Organization ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
The World ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

Single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) techniques allow near molecular scale resolution (~ 20nm) as well as precise and robust analysis of protein organization at different scales. SMLM hardware, analytics and probes have been the focus of a variety of studies and are now commonly used in laboratories across the world. Protocol reliability and artefact identification are increasingly seen as important aspects of super-resolution microscopy. The reliability of these approaches thus requires in-depth evaluation so that biological findings are based on solid foundations. Here we explore how different fixation approaches that disrupt or preserve the actin cytoskeleton affect membrane protein organization. Using CD4 as a model, we show that fixation-mediated disruption of the actin cytoskeleton correlates with changes in CD4 membrane organization. We highlight how these artefacts are easy to overlook and how careful sample preparation is essential for extracting meaningful results from super-resolution microscopy.

scholarly journals Photoactivation of silicon rhodamines via a light-induced protonation

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michelle S. Frei ◽  
Philipp Hoess ◽  
Marko Lampe ◽  
Bianca Nijmeijer ◽  
Moritz Kueblbeck ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Single Molecule ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Spectroscopic Properties ◽  
Single Particle Tracking ◽  
Live Cell ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Rhodamine Derivative ◽  
New Type ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

AbstractWe present a new type of photoactivatable fluorophore that forms a bright silicon rhodamine derivative through a light-dependent isomerization followed by protonation. In contrast to other photoactivatable fluorophores, no caging groups are required, nor are there any undesired side-products released. Using this photoactivatable fluorophore, we created probes for HaloTag and actin for live-cell single-molecule localization microscopy and single-particle tracking experiments. The unusual mechanism of photoactivation and the fluorophore’s outstanding spectroscopic properties make it a powerful tool for live-cell super-resolution microscopy.

scholarly journals KAHRP dynamically relocalizes to remodeled actin junctions and associates with knob spirals in P. falciparum-infected erythrocytes

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cecilia Palmira Sanchez ◽  
Pintu Patra ◽  
Shih-Ying Chang ◽  
Christos Karathanasis ◽  
Lukas Hanebutte ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Single Molecule ◽  
Severe Disease ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Plasmodium Falciparum Malaria ◽  
Membrane Skeleton ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Membrane Protrusions ◽  
Important Virulence Factor ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy ◽  
Single Molecule Localization Microscopy

The knob-associated histidine-rich protein (KAHRP) plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of Plasmodium falciparum malaria by forming membrane protrusions in infected erythrocytes, which anchor parasite-encoded adhesins to the membrane skeleton. The resulting sequestration of parasitized erythrocytes in the microvasculature leads to severe disease. Despite KAHRP being an important virulence factor, its physical location within the membrane skeleton is still debated, as is its function in knob formation. Here, we show by super-resolution microscopy that KAHRP initially associates with various skeletal components, including ankyrin bridges, but eventually co-localizes with remnant actin junctions. We further present a 35 Angstrom map of the spiral scaffold underlying knobs and show that a KAHRP-targeting nanoprobe binds close to the spiral scaffold. Single-molecule localization microscopy detected ~60 KAHRP molecules per knob. We propose a dynamic model of KAHRP organization and a function of KAHRP in attaching other factors to the spiral scaffold.

scholarly journals Comparing Super-Resolution Microscopy Techniques to Analyze Chromosomes

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (4) ◽  
pp. 1903
Author(s):  
Ivona Kubalová ◽  
Alžběta Němečková ◽  
Klaus Weisshart ◽  
Eva Hřibová ◽  
Veit Schubert
Keyword(s):  
Single Molecule ◽  
Imaging Techniques ◽  
Chromatin Condensation ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Stimulated Emission ◽  
Wide Field ◽  
Structured Illumination Microscopy ◽  
Metaphase Chromosomes ◽  
Localization Microscopy ◽  
Super Resolution Microscopy

The importance of fluorescence light microscopy for understanding cellular and sub-cellular structures and functions is undeniable. However, the resolution is limited by light diffraction (~200–250 nm laterally, ~500–700 nm axially). Meanwhile, super-resolution microscopy, such as structured illumination microscopy (SIM), is being applied more and more to overcome this restriction. Instead, super-resolution by stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy achieving a resolution of ~50 nm laterally and ~130 nm axially has not yet frequently been applied in plant cell research due to the required specific sample preparation and stable dye staining. Single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) including photoactivated localization microscopy (PALM) has not yet been widely used, although this nanoscopic technique allows even the detection of single molecules. In this study, we compared protein imaging within metaphase chromosomes of barley via conventional wide-field and confocal microscopy, and the sub-diffraction methods SIM, STED, and SMLM. The chromosomes were labeled by DAPI (4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindol), a DNA-specific dye, and with antibodies against topoisomerase IIα (Topo II), a protein important for correct chromatin condensation. Compared to the diffraction-limited methods, the combination of the three different super-resolution imaging techniques delivered tremendous additional insights into the plant chromosome architecture through the achieved increased resolution.

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