Chilean Students Shine: Second Place in Global 3D Imaging World Cup Highlights Rising Scientific Innovation
SANTIAGO, CHILE – In a stunning display of scientific talent, two PhD students from Universidad Mayor (U. Mayor) in Chile have secured second place in the highly competitive 3D Imaging World Cup, organized by the American biotechnology company Alpenglow Biosciences. This breaking news underscores Chile’s burgeoning role in advanced biological research and the power of innovative imaging techniques. This achievement is poised to significantly boost SEO visibility for Chilean science and technology on Google News.
Capturing Life’s Blueprint: A High-Resolution Zebrafish Embryo
María Jesús Vásquez and Matías Benítez captivated the international jury with a breathtakingly detailed photograph of a Zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo, taken just three days after fertilization. The image, lauded for its exceptional resolution, provides a window into the intricate processes of early embryonic development. “We were greatly surprised,” Vásquez shared, “because we were competing with people from all over the world who also carry out this type of research.”
Credit: U. Mayor
The Power of Light-Sheet Microscopy: A Revolution in Biological Imaging
The students’ success is directly linked to the Universidad Mayor’s investment in cutting-edge technology – specifically, a Light-sheet microscope acquired in 2021. This advanced instrument allows researchers to visualize biological samples with minimal light damage (phototoxicity), a crucial advantage when studying living organisms over extended periods. “First we perform a technique called chain reaction hybridization on the embryos,” explained Vásquez. “Then these are mounted in agarose and we observe them in this Light-sheet type microscope.”
Light-sheet microscopy isn’t just about pretty pictures; it’s a paradigm shift in how we study life. Traditional microscopy methods can harm delicate cells with prolonged light exposure. Light-sheet, however, illuminates the sample with a thin sheet of light, reducing phototoxicity and enabling long-term observation of dynamic biological processes. This is particularly vital for developmental biology, where observing changes over time is paramount.
Unlocking Genetic Secrets: The Mex3b Gene and Embryonic Development
The award-winning photograph isn’t merely aesthetically pleasing; it’s a powerful research tool. The image reveals the precise location of the Mex3b gene within the developing Zebrafish embryo. Vásquez, whose doctoral work focuses on retinal development, explained, “The photo allows us to see in high resolution where the gene is located.”
Zebrafish are increasingly popular as a biological model due to their genetic similarity to humans – approximately 70% of human genes have a counterpart in the Zebrafish genome. Studying gene expression in Zebrafish embryos provides valuable insights into human development and disease. Understanding the role of genes like Mex3b can potentially lead to breakthroughs in treating genetic disorders and developmental abnormalities.
Chile on the Global Stage: Visibility for South American Science
Beyond the scientific achievement, Vásquez emphasized the importance of these competitions for raising the profile of Chilean science. “These contests are super important, since they allow make science visible which is done in Chile, which is on the border, from the acquisition of this latest generation equipment that we have.” This recognition not only celebrates the talent of these students but also highlights the growing investment in scientific infrastructure within Chile and its increasing contribution to the global scientific community. The success of Vásquez and Benítez serves as an inspiration for aspiring scientists across South America, demonstrating that world-class research can – and does – happen beyond traditional scientific hubs.
The future of biological imaging is bright, and with researchers like María Jesús Vásquez and Matías Benítez leading the charge, Chile is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping that future. Stay tuned to Archyde for continued coverage of groundbreaking scientific advancements and emerging technologies.
