Work

Single-shot two-dimensional nano-size mapping of fluorescent molecules by ultrafast polarization anisotropy imaging

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Molecular size plays a crucial role in determining the physical, chemical, and biological properties of substances. However, traditional fluorescence polarization anisotropy methods struggle to capture fast transient processes or provide plane-specific details. To overcome these limitations, we introduce Compressed Ultrafast Planar Polarization Anisotropy Imaging (CUP2AI). This approach combines femtosecond laser-sheet illumination, molecular rotational diffusivity, and compressed sensing to enable real-time, non-invasive, wide-field anisotropy measurements in both liquid and gas phases. CUP2AI captures 2D molecular size mapping in a single acquisition, granting unprecedented insights into dynamic events across various excitation modes (i.e. both one- and two-photon) and environmental conditions. It enables mapping of molecular volume (500 Å³-80,000 Å³) and hydrodynamic diameter (10 Å-50 Å) based on anisotropy lifetimes. We imaged fluorescein-conjugated dextran in water and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in flames. CUP2AI holds transformative potential for applications ranging from molecular biology and drug design to nanoparticle formation.

Source: Nature Communications

DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60072-1

Authors: Peng Wang, Yogeshwar Nath Mishra, Florian J. Bauer, Murthy S. Gudipati, Lihong V. Wang

Institutions: California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Fluorescence Microscopy Techniques

Subfield: Biophysics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $6,990