One-of-a-kind microscope reveals living cells in unprecedented detail

Stanford researchers have combined two microscopy techniques to create a first-of-its-kind instrument capable of showing interacting cellular structures in real time at an unprecedented resolution of 120 nanometers, the highest achieved without the use of fluorescent labels. This new “label-free” technology, called interferometric image scanning microscopy (iISM), will allow scientists to observe cellular structures in their broader context, including their responses to intrusions, such as pathogens or drugs.