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The diffraction limit has been overcome by engineers at harvard. Now for the first time we will be able to view a cell surface in all its glory. Previously, we were able to view the cell surface with the electron microscope but the preparation techniques denatured the proteins. Now, however, we will soon be able to use an optical microscope to view objects in the 100 nanometer range and below.

Education is a two-edged sword. I remember hearing about the diffraction limit and coming to the conclusion that we would never be able to view the cell surface in an unaltered state. Indeed, you must always take everything you learn with a grain of salt.

What does this mean with regard to progress in Cell Recognition Factors? For one thing, we will be able to demonstrate the importance of cell recognition in development. And speaking of development, we may, in our lifetime, be able to manufacture a cell sorting machine that can recognize adult stem cells and pluck them out for further study. What an exciting time it is for the young researcher just starting out in Biology!
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