Advancing super-resolution microscopy with metal complexes: functional imaging agents for nanoscale visualization

Abstract

Super-resolution microscopy (SRM) has transformed biological imaging by overcoming the diffraction limit, offering nanoscale visualization of cellular structures and processes. However, the widespread use of organic fluorescent probes is often hindered by limitations such as photobleaching, short photostability, and inadequate performance in deep-tissue imaging. Metal complexes, with their superior photophysical properties, including exceptional photostability, tuneable luminescence, and extended excited-state lifetimes, address these challenges, enabling precise subcellular targeting and long-term imaging. Beyond imaging, their theranostic potential unlocks real-time diagnostics and treatments for diseases such as cancer and bacterial infections. This review explores recent advancements in applying metal complexes for SRM, focusing on their utility in visualizing intricate subcellular structures, capturing temporal dynamics in live cells and elucidating in vivo spatial organization. We emphasize how rational design strategies optimize biocompatibility, organelle specificity, and deep-tissue penetration, expanding their applicability in multiplexed imaging. Furthermore, we discuss the design of various metal nanoparticles (NPs) for SRM, along with emerging hybrid nanoscale probes that integrate metal complexes with gold (Au) scaffolds, offering promising avenues for overcoming current limitations. By highlighting both established successes and potential frontiers, this review provides a roadmap for leveraging metal complexes as versatile tools in advancing SRM applications.