Refractive Index Mapping below the Diffraction Limit via Single Molecule Localization Microscopy.

ABSTRACT: Single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) is a powerful method to image biological samples in three dimensions, below the diffraction limit of light microscopy. Beyond the position of the emitter, the shape of the single-molecule point spread function provides additional information, for example, about the refractive properties of the sample between the emitter and the glass coverslip. Here, we show that the combination of SMLM with atomic force microscopy (AFM) allows mapping of the refractive index of a biological sample at subdiffraction resolution and at a precision only limited by measurement errors of SMLM and AFM. We showcase the method by the determination of the refractive index of isolated single collagen fibrils. Variabilities both in refractive index and the swelling behav

SUBMITTER: Jaritz S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12822553 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature