MMED 6101 Principles of Super Resolution Microscopy

2 SCH. Fluorescence imaging methods that push or break the diffraction limit of resolution (approximately 200 nm) have grown tremendously in recent years. This explosive growth was possible by the extremely sensitive detection devices, wide spectrum lasers and photo-active fluorescent probes. They have the ability to see more detail with greater sensitivity-down to s ingle molecules with tens of nanometers resolution. The super-resolution microscopy (SRM) techniques that we will discuss include: stimulated emission depletion (STED), photoactivation localization microscopy (PALM), stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM), structured illumination microscopy (SIM) and total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM). Each affords unique strengths in lateral and axial resolution, speed, sensitivity, and fluorophore compatibility. We will learn the optical principles and design of these new instruments. We highlight common features of SRM such as the conversion of probes between ground or excited states and the use of scanning process (ordered or stochastic). We will discuss major advances, biological applications, and promising new developments such as revelation of transient intermediate states of organelles and molecules in living.
Prerequisite: Students must complete BMSC 6201 prior to enrolling in this course. It is strongly suggested that students also complete CBIM 6220.
Offered Fall
Letter Grade