Bridging high resolution sub-cellular imaging with physiologically relevant engineered tissues

TL;DR

This review discusses recent advancements in fluorescence microscopy and tissue engineering techniques that enable high-resolution sub-cellular imaging within thick 3D engineered tissues, overcoming traditional imaging limitations.

Contribution

It synthesizes current imaging methods and tissue engineering strategies, providing a comprehensive guide for researchers to achieve high-resolution imaging in complex 3D tissues.

Findings

Integration of super-resolution microscopy with tissue engineering enhances imaging depth.

Use of novel fluorescent probes improves visualization of sub-cellular structures.

Combining imaging techniques with tissue scaffolds overcomes traditional resolution barriers.

Abstract

While high-resolution microscopic techniques are crucial for studying cellular structures in cell biology, obtaining such images from thick 3D engineered tissues remains challenging. In this review, we explore advancements in fluorescence microscopy, alongside the use of various fluorescent probes and material processing techniques to address these challenges. We navigate through the diverse array of imaging options available in tissue engineering field, from wide field to super-resolution microscopy, so researchers can make more informed decisions based on the specific tissue and cellular structures of interest. Finally, we provide some recent examples of how traditional limitations on obtaining high-resolution images on sub-cellular architecture within 3D tissues have been overcome by combining imaging advancements with innovative tissue engineering approaches.