Quantum Leap: New Microscopy Technique Visualizes Cell Structures

Researchers at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have unveiled a groundbreaking microscopy technique called nuclear spin microscopy. This innovation allows for the visualization of magnetic signals from nuclear magnetic resonance using quantum sensors, converting them into light for high-resolution optical imaging. Published in *Nature Communications*, the method extends MRI capabilities to microscopic levels. At the core of this microscope is a diamond chip, atomically prepared to act as a quantum sensor for MRI magnetic fields. Irradiated with laser light, the chip emits a fluorescent signal containing MRI data, captured by a high-speed camera. This enables imaging with a resolution down to 10 millionths of a meter, potentially revealing structures of individual cells. The applications for nuclear spin microscopy are extensive. It could revolutionize cancer research by enabling detailed examination of individual cells, providing insights into tumor growth. In pharmaceutical research, it offers a way to efficiently test and optimize active ingredients at a molecular level. Materials science could also benefit, with the technology used to analyze the chemical composition of thin-film materials or catalysts. A patent has been filed, and further development is underway to enhance speed and precision, potentially making it a standard tool in medical diagnostics and research.