Nanoscale three-dimensional imaging of biological tissue with X-ray holographic tomography

Enabling exploration of biological tissue in three-dimensions at sub-cellular scale is instrumental for advancing our understanding of biological systems and for finding better ways to cope with diseases. Over the last few years, remarkable advances in microscopy facilitated probing cells and tissues at the nanometer scale but many limitations are yet to be overcome. Here we present a novel technique which enables label-free volume imaging of biological tissue with pixel sizes down to 25 nm while maintaining extensive sample coverage. X-ray holographic nanotomography is a full-field 3D imaging technique which benefits from the deep penetration of X-rays and the powerful mechanism of phase contrast. By using cryogenic sample preservation, the tissue can be investigated close to the native state. The unprecedented data created by this technique opens new avenues in life sciences research.