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Updated: Aug 6, 2025

Author Spotlight: Universal Molecular Retention with 11-Fold Expansion Microscopy
Published on: October 6, 2023
MicroMagnify: a multiplexed expansion microscopy method for pathogens and infected tissues
Yongxin Zhao1, Zhangyu Cheng1, Caroline Stefani2
1Carnegie Mellon University.
Abstract:
Super-resolution optical imaging tools are crucial in microbiology to understand the complex structures and behavior of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. However, the capabilities of these tools, particularly when it comes to imaging pathogens and infected tissues, remain limited. We developed µMagnify, a nanoscale multiplexed imaging method for pathogens and infected tissues that are derived from an expansion microscopy technique with a universal biomolecular anchor. We formulated an enzyme cocktail specifically designed for robust cell wall digestion and expansion of microbial cells without distortion while efficiently retaining biomolecules suitable for high-plex fluorescence imaging with nanoscale precision. Additionally, we developed an associated virtual reality tool to facilitate the visualization and navigation of complex three-dimensional images generated by this method in an immersive environment allowing collaborative exploration among researchers around the world. µMagnify is a valuable imaging platform for studying how microbes interact with their host systems and enables development of new diagnosis strategies against infectious diseases.
Insights
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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