The Nikon Small World photomicrography competition has unveiled some remarkable images captured by the snapping of a camera shutter and the use of a microscope. One particularly striking image shows mouse brain tumor cells, with magenta blobs representing the nuclei of the cells, surrounded by white actin proteins that give the cells shape. Additionally, green rigid rods known as microtubules connect some cells and transport organelles like mitochondria within the cells. Research conducted by neuroscientist Bruno Cisterna using similar images found that a protein called PFN1 plays a role in helping microtubules function properly. The study revealed that without enough PFN1, cells would transport more mitochondria faster, potentially leading to cell death.
Another captivating image showcases an electric arc magnified ten times its original size traveling along a wire wrapped around a stick gas lighter and a sharp entomology pin. Physicist Marcel Clemens used a wire to connect the two objects and captured the electrical arcs with long exposure times. The pink or purple glow result from electrically charged atoms losing or gaining electrons, while the blue emissions seen around the lighter and the orange trails from the pin remain a mystery to Clemens.
A close-up look at the eyes of a green crab spider provides a fascinating view of this arachnid’s intricate visual system. The photographer, Pawel Blachowicz, combined several dozen photos to create a detailed close-up of the spider’s eyes, leading to an image that some may interpret as resembling a UFO or a mutant Kermit the Frog. Crab spiders, which can change color to blend in with their surroundings, have the ability to camouflage themselves within their environment, taking several days for the process to complete.
The microscopic image of Toxoplasma gondii parasites dividing asexually inside a human skin cell provides a glimpse into the reproduction process of these oval-shaped parasites. Life scientist Kseniia Bondarenko utilized a high-resolution microscope and computational methods to capture the parasites dividing within the cell. While most individuals infected with the parasite do not show symptoms, severe cases can lead to muscle aches, fever, and damage to vital organs, including the brain. The parasite’s ability to divide through endodyogeny is illustrated in the image, where a mother cell is consumed as two daughter cells emerge.
A visually striking image of an adult red palm weevil showcases the insect’s intimidating appearance, with a beak-like projection and fighter-like antennae visible. The red palm weevil is known to be one of the most destructive palm pests, capable of hollowing out palm trees and causing significant damage. Zoologist Sherif Abdallah utilized controlled lighting and image stitching techniques to capture the head of the weevil, emphasizing its readiness for combat. Abdallah is actively engaged in research to combat the spread of this destructive species.
Lastly, a series of images capturing the opening of a Hibiscus moscheutos anther over a period of roughly 40 minutes provides insight into the process of pollen release. Photographer Daniel Knop meticulously observed and captured the unfolding of the anther as it releases spiky pollen into the air. Knop’s passion for capturing the intricate details of natural phenomena shines through in this series of images, encouraging viewers to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature’s processes. Each of these microscopic images offers a glimpse into the intricate world of microorganisms, insects, and plants, showcasing the beauty and complexity that exists on a smaller scale.
