A Step-by-Step Guide to Instant Structured Illumination Microscopy (iSIM)

Methods Mol Biol. 2021:2304:347-359. doi: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1402-0_19.

Abstract

Instant structured illumination microscopy (iSIM) allows for rapid multicolor three-dimensional fluorescence imaging at levels of resolution approaching twice the diffraction limit. Here we briefly describe the theory of iSIM and outline a typical hardware setup. We also provide step-by-step guides for generating a cellular-based fluorescent standard, obtaining a multicolor image with iSIM, and the post-processing steps of de-striping and deconvolution using freely distributed software to minimize time and expense. A "Notes" section is also given to inform the reader of the limitations and considerations for the methods shown. Also discussed are alternative methods, quality control checks, and considerations for two-camera alignment.

Keywords: Fluorescence; Instant structured illumination microscopy; Review; Super-resolution; iSIM.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Line
  • Fibroblasts / cytology*
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / instrumentation*
  • Mice
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence / instrumentation*
  • Software