STED microscopy

STED (Stimulated Emission Depletion) microscopy is an advanced imaging technique that allows scientists to see very tiny structures inside cells, smaller than what traditional microscopes can resolve. It works by using two laser beams: one to excite fluorescent molecules and another to deactivate (or "turn off") those molecules except in a very tiny focal area. When done correctly, this process sharpens the image, revealing details at the nanometer scale. STED microscopy enables researchers to observe biological processes with extraordinary detail, improving our understanding of cellular functions and structures at the molecular level.