Photoactivated Localization Microscopy for Cellular Imaging

In a method termed photoactivated localization microscopy (PALM), super-resolution fluorescence imaging can be achieved through the localization of single molecules. This allows the resolution of specific proteins fused to the appropriate fluorescent protein label. Here, we summarize fluorescent proteins suitable for PALM, the technical aspects of multicolor and three-dimensional imaging, and the software packages that are available. Additionally, we highlight several biological applications with an emphasis on neuroscience.