Development of a platform for super-resolution imaging in non-conventional environments

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Structured Illumination Microscopy (SIM) is a super-resolution optical microscopy technique that enables sub-diffraction imaging of live samples in multiple colours. This is achieved by illuminating the sample with changing patterns of excitation light and computationally extracting sub-diffraction information from images acquired under three or more different patterns. In addition to a doubling of resolution, additional processing of SIM data allows the rejection of out of focus light, producing optically sectioned images to increase both the contrast and resolution in deep tissues.Since its inception, SIM has become a workhorse technique for biologists wishing to study dynamic structures within living systems. However, current implementations of SIM remain prohibitively expensive and complicated for all but the most well-funded imaging facilities.Additionally, the complexity of existing systems means they can only be operated in heavily controlled environments, and require extensive and complicated hardware control which can be difficult or impossible to replace or repair. This precludes the application of SIM in situations where it is not possible to house bulky apparatus that may be sensitive to temperature and adverse environmental conditions. Examples of this include the cold rooms used to study Antarctic species and the high containment level biological research labs used to study pathogenic samples. The goal of this project is to fundamentally re-design and construct a SIM microscope from the ground up, to offer super resolution microscopy to researchers who previously have been unable to make use of it. This will enable biological research in vital areas, such as virology, where key processes are still poorly understood due to limitations in existing imaging technologies. This project will develop a simple pattern projection technique based on a commercial spatial light modulator, such as those found in low-cost projectors. This will be combined with low-power LED light sources and 3D printed parts which can be easily replaced and do not require access to specialist suppliers. Bundled together, this will be a simple and easily accessible SIM system that can be used outside of traditional optics labs.