Augmented Super-Resolution Radial Fluctuations (aSRRF) Pushing the Limits of Structured Illumination Microscopy

Abstract

Structured illumination microscopy (SIM) is a versatile super-resolution technique known for its compatibility with a wide range of probes and fast implementation. While 3D SIM is capable of achieving a spatial resolution of [~]120 nm laterally and [~]300 nm axially, attempting to further enhance the resolution through methods such as nonlinear SIM or 4-beam SIM introduces complexities in optical configurations, increased phototoxicity, and reduced temporal resolution. Here, we have developed a novel method that combines SIM with augmented super-resolution radial fluctuations (aSRRF) utilizing a single image through image augmentation. By applying aSRRF reconstruction to SIM images, we can enhance the SIM resolution to [~]50 nm isotopically, without requiring any modifications to the optical system or sample acquisition process. Additionaly, we have incorporated the aSRRF approach into an ImageJ plugin and demonstrated its versatility across various fluorescence microscopy images, showcasing a remarkable two-fold resolution increase.