Xiaowei Zhuang develops advanced imaging methods to reveal the molecular mechanisms of cellular function. Inventions from her lab, such as the super-resolution imaging method known as stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM) and the single-cell transcriptome imaging method known as multiplexed error-robust fluorescence in situ hybridization (MERFISH), allow imaging of cells and tissues with single-molecule sensitivity, nanometer-scale resolution, and genomic-scale throughput. Zhuang and her team apply these methods to investigate an array of biological questions pertaining to molecular structures in cells, chromatin in the nucleus, regulation of gene expression, and the organization of distinct cell types in tissues.
Feeling ill is about both the body and the brain. Now scientists have identified a group of neurons in mice that has ultimate control over symptoms such as fever and behaviors like seeking out warmth. HHMI researchers develop a new single-cell imaging technique that reveals the copy numbers and locations of thousands of RNA molecules inside a cell. Scientists have discovered that periodic ring-shaped actin arrangements encircle the long axonal fibers of nerve cells, in contrast to the linear meshworks that typically give cells their shapes. Fourteen HHMI scientists are among 84 newly elected members. HHMI announces the names of scientists selected to pilot a new program devoted to supporting transformative, collaborative research.