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Updated: Aug 6, 2025

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Author Spotlight: Universal Molecular Retention with 11-Fold Expansion Microscopy
Published on: October 6, 2023
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MicroMagnify: a multiplexed expansion microscopy method for pathogens and infected tissues
Yongxin Zhao1, Zhangyu Cheng1, Caroline Stefani2
1Carnegie Mellon University.
Research Square
|March 22, 2023
Summary
We developed µMagnify, a novel nanoscale imaging method for visualizing pathogens and infected tissues. This technique enhances super-resolution microscopy for better understanding microbial-host interactions and developing new diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Microscopy
- Pathogen research
Background:
- Super-resolution optical imaging is vital for microbiology but limited for pathogens and infected tissues.
- Understanding microbial structures and host interactions requires advanced imaging techniques.
Approach:
- Developed µMagnify, a nanoscale multiplexed imaging method using expansion microscopy and a universal biomolecular anchor.
- Formulated an enzyme cocktail for robust microbial cell wall digestion and expansion, preserving biomolecules for high-plex fluorescence imaging.
- Created a virtual reality tool for immersive 3D image visualization and collaborative exploration.
Key Points:
- µMagnify achieves nanoscale precision in imaging microbial pathogens and infected tissues.
- The method ensures robust cell expansion without biomolecular distortion.
- Enables high-plex fluorescence imaging for detailed analysis.
Conclusions:
- µMagnify is a powerful imaging platform for studying microbe-host interactions.
- This technology can advance the development of diagnostic strategies for infectious diseases.
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