A super-resolution platform for correlative live single-molecule imaging and STED microscopy

Super-resolution microscopy offers tremendous opportunities to unravel the complex and dynamic architecture of living cells. However, current super-resolution microscopes are well suited for revealing protein distributions or cell morphology, but not both. We present a super-resolution platform that permits correlative single-molecule imaging and stimulated emission depletion microscopy in live cells. It gives nanoscale access to the positions and movements of synaptic proteins within the morphological context of growth cones and dendritic spines. Seamless integration of single-molecule localization microscopy and STED allows for correlative live imaging of protein position and movement at the nanoscale in the context of fine morphological features.