A non-iterative frame-reduced structured illumination microscopy using checkerboard modulation

Structured illumination microscopy (SIM) is a tremendously potential super-resolution microscopy technique requiring nine raw images to enhance two-fold lateral resolution. For SIM, it is a challenging dilemma to achieve super-resolution imaging with a reduced number of images and fast data processing speed at the same time. Here, we demonstrate a new SIM reconstruction framework that uses only four raw images without requiring extensive iterative computation. The four-frame method is achieved by applying checkerboard pattern illumination modulation to supersede the sinusoidal fringe illumination. It is worth noting that the proposed scheme prominently shortens image acquisition time, combined with a remarkably higher image reconstruction rate compared to current frame-reduced methods. Meanwhile, the reconstruction process is non-iterative and unlimited by the field of view size. Consequently, our work is expected to bring about breakthroughs in facilitating the improvement of real-time live cell observation.