The Power of Microscopes
While the microscope is not the new kid on the scientific block, it is far from being an outdated piece of scientific equipment. Still commonly used with a wide range of industrial, environmental, medical and research applications, microscopy is a powerful tool that has revolutionised our understanding of the world in a way that no other technology can, by direct observation rather than measurement. Visual and qualitative data can be the most critical information when linking other data for understanding. Here, we explore the significance of microscopy, highlighting three key examples where it serves as an essential instrument, with a special focus on water quality and the role of cyanobacteria in the World Health Organisation’s One Health Initiative and the growing demand for skilled microscopists and taxonomists.
Microscopy in Biological Research
One of the most profound impacts of microscopy is in biological research. It allows scientists to observe the intricate details of cells and microorganisms, giving insights into fundamental processes such as cell division, genetics, and disease mechanisms of viruses, bacteria and fungi. For example, the development of advanced techniques such as electron microscopy has enabled researchers to visualise viruses at the nanoscale, aiding in developing vaccines and antiviral therapies that were so critical during the initial phases of research for the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in 2020. The ability to gather detailed data at such a high resolution has been pivotal in advancing our understanding of complex biological structures and systems. It has improved the efficacy of medications for many diseases by understanding membrane and immune system structures and identifying different types of cancerous tumour cells.
Microscopy in Materials Science
In the realm of industry, microscopy plays a crucial role in materials science. It enables the examination of the microstructure of materials such as metals and plastics is essential for quality control and developing stronger, lighter, and more sustainable materials. For instance, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is routinely used to inspect metal surfaces in the automotive and aerospace industries to investigate aircraft and motor vehicle incidents to determine the cause. By analysing the microstructural properties, engineers can ensure the integrity and performance of critical components such as structural beams for high-rise buildings, leading to safer buildings and safety standards. The data gathered through microscopy informs decisions that drive innovation and competitiveness in the industrial sector.
Microscopy in Water Quality Assessment
Water quality assessment is a vital area where microscopy is indispensable for monitoring the presence of cyanobacteria and the formation of blooms, as well as for facilitating recreational management and water treatment. It also directs environmental research by detecting previously unknown species within a region that may indicate climate changes or genetic shifts within a population. Microscopy is of particular importance for detecting new and novel potentially harmful cyanobacteria and observing changes in ecologies that may be related to pollution and climate change.
Cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae, can produce toxins that pose significant health risks to humans and animals. These toxins and the genes responsible are readily detectable using sensitive chemical and genetic testing. Because cyanobacteria can pick up and incorporate DNA from the environment, these tests do not tell you which species carries the gene or produces the toxin. Microscopy can, in part or wholly, answer that question or provide further direction for investigation by having a skilled microscopist identify a change in the population assemblage and recognise its potential significance.
Significance of Cyanobacteria in the One Health Initiative
The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) One Health Initiative is an international collaborative programme across multiple sectors that emphasises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Monitoring the ever-increasing occurrences of cyanobacteria blooms is a prominent, underlying issue that impacts all these areas. It is one of the most comprehensive monitoring programmes for significant global health threats. The data gathered through microscopy helps in the early detection of harmful blooms, enabling timely interventions to protect public health and maintain ecological balance.
Cyanobacteria are of particular significance in the One Health Initiative due to their potential impact on water quality, on which all life on Earth relies. These microorganisms thrive in nutrient-rich waters and can lead to harmful algal blooms (HABs) that contaminate drinking water sources and are potentially linked to increased rates of neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia and motor neurone disease in communities impacted by frequent cyanobacterial contamination of the water supply. By utilising microscopy to monitor cyanobacteria populations, researchers can develop tools and mitigation strategies to reduce the frequency of blooms and the risks associated with HABs. This proactive approach is essential in safeguarding the health of communities and ecosystems, aligning with the One Health vision of promoting sustainable and healthy environments. But to do this, we need to support this area of science.
The Need for More Microscopists and Taxonomists in Phycology
As the demand for detailed and accurate data continues to grow in both scientific research and industry and academia, the need for skilled microscopists and taxonomists, particularly in environmental biology and phycology, is becoming increasingly apparent. The industry has some catching up to do. The algae and phytoplankton, particularly cyanobacteria, have undergone significant taxonomic revisions over the past decade, with ongoing changes. Many of the resources and reference materials are now out of date. These reference collections and resources are critical to scientific knowledge but need reviewing and updating to include genetic and biochemical data that is now so readily available, and their morphological descriptions. In addition, we still know so little about the distribution of taxa in waterways, particularly in the remote areas of Australia.
These professionals are essential in interpreting microscopic data and identifying various organisms, contributing to a deeper understanding of complex biological and ecological systems. Investing in the education and training of future microscopists and taxonomists is crucial to ensuring a robust workforce capable of addressing the challenges of tomorrow. By fostering expertise in these fields, we can continue to leverage the power of microscopy to drive innovation and enhance our understanding of the world.
Microscopy is an indispensable scientific and industrial tool, providing critical information and data that informs, which has the power to direct research, and continues to push the boundaries of our knowledge to this day. We need more scientists and technicians who can do it and who can do it well. However, we are losing more skilled microscopists than are taking it up as a career, and in addition, the skills to train and availability of training programs within tertiary education and industry are also decreasing.
It is essential to the future of programs, such as the One Health initiative, one of the most comprehensive monitoring programs, that this doesn’t happen. From biological research to materials science and water quality assessment, the insights gained through microscopy have far-reaching implications. As we continue to face the current and future environmental challenges, the role of skilled professionals in this field remains vital.
By investing in training and supporting skills development in microscopy, we can unlock new possibilities and ensure a healthier environment and population, as well as innovative industries, creating a healthier, more sustainable future.