Series of images illustrating the effect of deconvolution on images of expanded (4x) human NMJs. The left images show unprocessed raw images, with middle columns showing the same images after applying the classical maximum likelihood estimation (CMLE) deconvolution algorithm based on the theoretical point spread function (PSF) and the right columns showing the same images processed using an identical deconvolution algorithm but with the precise experimental PSF. NMJs were stained with alpha-bungarotoxin for AChRs (in cyan) and SV2 for presynaptic vesicles (magenta). Notably, the deconvolution process led to a substantial enhancement in image contrast, noise reduction, and resolution in visualizing nano-scale structural details. Scale bars: 4 m, (biological unit = 1 m pre-expansion).
