Abstract
Localization-based super-resolution microscopy relies on the detection of individual molecules cycling between fluorescent and non-fluorescent states. These transitions are commonly regulated by high-intensity illumination, imposing constrains to imaging hardware and producing sample photodamage. Here, we propose single-molecule self-quenching as a mechanism to generate spontaneous photoswitching. To demonstrate this principle, we developed a new class of DNA-based open-source super-resolution probes named super-beacons, with photoswitching kinetics that can be tuned structurally, thermally and chemically. The potential of these probes for live-cell compatible super-resolution microscopy without high-illumination or toxic imaging buffers is revealed by imaging interferon inducible transmembrane proteins (IFITMs) at sub-100 nm resolutions.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 375-385 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Traffic |
Volume | 21 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 May 2020 |
Keywords
- DNA
- fluorescence microscopy
- fluorescence quenching
- live-cell
- molecular-beacons
- super-resolution