Researchers look at human tissues with microscopy

According to NCSU, the study focused specifically on eye tissues, which are damaged by scarring in diabetic patients.

‘Our findings are a proof of concept, showing that this technique is extremely effective at giving us the data we need on these tissues,’ said Dr Albena Ivanisevic, co-author of a paper describing the research. ‘Specifically, it gives a great deal of information on the composition of these tissues, as well as the tissue’s topography, or surface characteristics.’

According to a statement, the study is one of the first to explore how this technology, called bimodal dual AC mode microscopy, can improve understanding of human tissues and biomaterials.

The research team, which included researchers from Purdue University and the University of Louisville School of Medicine, examined two types of eye tissue from diabetic patients.

Specifically, they looked at the inner limiting membrane (ILM), which is the surface layer of the retina, and so-called epiretinal membranes. Epiretinal membranes are scar tissues that form on the ILM in diabetics. Scar tissue can cause significant damage to the retina and, if untreated, may lead to blindness.