Light sheet illumination in single-molecule localization microscopy for imaging of cellular architectures and molecular dynamics

Single-molecule localization microscopy has revealed cellular architectures and molecular dynamics beyond the diffraction limit of light. However, imaging thick samples presents challenges from increased fluorescence background. Light sheet illumination, which utilizes a plane of light for optical sectioning, is effective in reducing fluorescence background, photobleaching, and photodamage. Here, we present the principles of single-molecule localization microscopy and light sheet illumination, followed by an introduction to light sheet microscopy geometries and their imaging applications. Finally, we discuss light sheet illumination approaches for high- and super-resolution imaging of biological structures and dynamics.