A high performance cost-effective MINFLUX microscope

MINFLUX is a novel super-resolution microscopy technology that localizes single fluorophores with extraordinary precision and enables structural imaging and single particle tracking with unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution. It can monitor conformational changes of proteins in living cells, which has the potential to revolutionize dynamic structural biology. Current MINFLUX microscopes however are complex and difficult to build, and the only commercial instrument is costly and has reduced functionality, thus access to this groundbreaking technology is limited.To enable widespread use of MINFLUX, we propose PhaseFLUX, a novel MINFLUX concept that reduces complexity by moving the zero position within the point-spread function, instead of physical movement. This innovative approach employs a fast variable phase plate consisting of only a few simple components, leading to significantly lower costs, higher robustness, and superior performance compared to existing instruments.Our project aims to develop a PhaseFLUX microscope prototype including 3D and multi-color capabilities. It will serve as a basis for potential commercialization, where the PhaseFLUX design promises reduced production and service costs, higher stability, higher performance and extended functionality.Building on our extensive expertise in super-resolution microscopy and collaborations with leading experts, we will focus on developing, validating, and demonstrating the PhaseFLUX prototype, paving the way for broader adoption and impactful biological discoveries. Additionally, we will analyze the intellectual property landscape to explore viable commercialization routes, ensuring this breakthrough technology benefits the wider scientific community.