Detection and quantification of individual molecules in addition to nanometric spatial resolution
A new imaging paradigm has emerged
Nanoscopy, also called Single Molecule Localization Microscopy (SMLM) circumvents the diffraction limit of fluorescence microscopy, providing nanometric spatial super-resolution. This revolutionary breakthrough in imaging relies on the ability of photoswitching fluorescent dyes. These dyes can be toggled between emitting and non-emitting states, allowing precise localization of individual molecules with nanometer-scale accuracy. Because of its principle, SMLM stands out as the sole method capable of not only achieving such remarkable super-resolution but also quantifying and counting individual molecules within biological samples. SMLM stands as the pinnacle of simplicity and precision in imaging, rivaling electron microscopy in spatial resolution while offering a vastly more straightforward and accessible approach to unraveling the mysteries of the nanoscale world.