Super Resolution

Super-resolution microscopy allows users to resolve structures smaller than the diffraction limit. The Nikon N-SIM microscope uses structured illumination microscopy (SIM), a combination of specialized imaging techniques and complex software analysis, to achieve higher resolutions in the x,y and z dimensions than are possible with conventional microscopy. Proper sample mounting techniques are crucial to quality imaging.

The Nikon STORM microscope relies on imaging photoswitchable fluorophores to achieve higher resolution imaging. Resolutions of 20 nm in XY and 50 nm in Z can be achieved using this microscope. Special buffers and dyes are required when using this microscope. The following link is a good place to start for basic STORM imaging information .

The Cell Imaging Shared Resource (CISR) houses two super-resolution microscopes for use by faculty, staff, and students.