# Nikon Small World Photomicrography Contest: An Amalgamation of Science and Art
Annually, the **Nikon Small World Photomicrography Contest** acts as a striking reminder that science can be just as visually captivating as it is educational. Now celebrating its 50th anniversary, the contest continues to highlight the allure and intricacy of the microscopic realm, unveiling detailed aspects that typically elude our vision. This year’s winning photograph, taken by **Bruno Cisterna** and **Eric Vitriol** from Augusta University, presents a stunning portrayal of differentiated mouse brain tumor cells, offering both visual delight and significant scientific insight.
## The Winning Image: A Window into Neurodegenerative Ailments
The 2024 top entry showcases a remarkable image of differentiated mouse brain tumor cells, emphasizing the **actin**, **microtubules**, and **nuclei**—essential parts of the cellular cytoskeleton. This image transcends mere artistry; it also aids our understanding of neurodegenerative conditions such as **Alzheimer’s** and **Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)**.
According to Cisterna, the study associated with the image examines how disruptions within the cytoskeleton of brain cells contribute to these crippling ailments. “A significant challenge with neurodegenerative diseases is our incomplete comprehension of their causes,” Cisterna stated. “To formulate effective therapies, we must first grasp the fundamentals. Our research is instrumental in uncovering this information, ultimately leading us towards a cure.”
By investigating differentiated cells, researchers can witness how mutations or toxic proteins—such as those connected to Alzheimer’s or ALS—affect neuronal structure. This inquiry could also facilitate screening for prospective drugs or gene therapies designed to safeguard neurons or restore their functionality.
## A Half-Century of Scientific Creativity
Initiated in **1974**, the Nikon Small World contest was established to showcase the beauty and intricacy of the microscopic environment through **photomicrography**—the art of capturing images through a microscope. This technique originated in the mid-19th century, with British physiologist **Richard Hill Norris** being among the early adopters for the study of blood cells in 1850. Throughout the years, photomicrography has advanced, especially with the introduction of **digital imaging technologies**, leading to enhanced precision and artistic expression.
The competition has transformed into a global forum that honors the convergence of science and art. As **Eric Flem**, a spokesperson for Nikon Instruments, observed, “After 50 years, Nikon Small World represents more than just a contest for imaging—it has evolved into a gallery celebrating the remarkable individuals who make it happen. They are the backbone of this event, seamlessly intertwining science and art to unveil the marvels of the microscopic universe.”
## The Science Behind the Image
This year’s top image is the culmination of thorough investigations into **profilin 1 (PFN1)**, a protein vital for establishing the structure of brain cells. PFN1 is crucial for sustaining **cellular transport**, essential for optimal cellular operations. Cisterna’s research uncovered that disruptions to this protein can cause the **microtubule highways**—responsible for transporting vital resources within the cell—to fail, resulting in cellular impairment.
Creating the image demanded meticulous effort. The staining process for the actin, microtubules, and nuclei took around three months to perfect. After extensive observation, Cisterna and Vitriol finally succeeded in capturing the ideal image, revealing the intricate beauty of cellular components.
## A Tribute to the Microscopic Realm
The Nikon Small World contest is more than a pursuit of scientific findings; it also stands as a tribute to the often-ignored splendor of the microscopic universe. The contest inspires us to take a moment and value the “small things” integral to the essence of life. From the delicate formations of brain cells to the detailed designs of insect eggs, the contest uncovers the hidden marvels surrounding us.
This year’s contest highlighted an array of striking submissions, from the **electric arc between a pin and a wire** to an up-close observation of **octopus eggs** and the **eyes of a green crab spider**. These images not only enchant viewers but also provide valuable perspectives on nature.
## The Top Winners of 2024
Here are some of the standout entries from this year’s contest:
1. **First Place**: Differentiated mouse brain tumor cells (actin, microtubules, and nuclei) by **Bruno Cisterna** and **Eric Vitriol**.
2. **Second Place**: Electrical arc between a pin and a wire by **Marcel Clemens**.
3. **Third Place**: Leaf of a cannabis plant, showcasing trichomes and cannabinoid vesicles by **Chris Romaine**.
4. **Fourth Place**:
