Super-Resolution Dynamic Imaging Deep in the brain – DeepSTED

Fluorescence microscopy is by far the most used optical imaging technique for biological investigations due to its non-invasiveness and the high molecular specificity of fluorescent labeling. Recent developments in super-resolution fluorescence microscopy in addition to the increase of available genetically encoded fluorescent molecules have provided a set of powerful tools for sub-cellular investigations in living cells and tissues. However, for the more specific needs of imaging deep in the brain in vivo, the potential of super-resolution microscopy has not yet been fully revealed due to the limited penetration depth of current approaches. Indeed, tissue heterogeneities cause large amounts of wavefront distortions reducing image quality. Fortunately, emerging wavefront control techniques can address this issue. The goal of the DeepSTED project is to drastically extend the range of applicability of STED microscopy by adapting wavefront control methods to STED imaging deep in tissues.