Super-resolution microscopy for structural biology

Super-resolution microscopy (SRM) has revolutionized biological imaging, enabling the visualization of biological structures at molecular resolution. However, the diversity of SRM techniques, each operating through different mechanisms, combined with the lack of a clear consensus on the definition of resolution, has hindered the biological community from fully recognizing SRM's contribution to structural biology. I propose a framework for defining, measuring and reporting resolution in SRM. Within this framework, I examine the capabilities of state-of-the-art methods that can achieve 'ångström-scale resolution' and clarify the level of structural detail users can expect to observe. Finally, drawing from recent advancements, I explore pathways to extend SRM towards live structural imaging.