First specific 3D visualization of SARS-CoV-2 respiratory infection

In a recent paper, researchers demonstrated the utility of volumetric three-dimensional (3D) immunofluorescence imaging with the UltraMicroscope II to investigate host-pathogen interactions of pandemic SARS-CoV-2 in ferrets at a mesoscopic scale.   

With the successful 3D visualization of SARS-CoV-2 infection, this study serves as a proof-of-concept for investigating important respiratory pathogens in intact tissue and organs.  

Reference:  
3D reconstruction of SARS-CoV-2 infection in ferrets emphasizes focal infection pattern in the upper respiratory tract
Zaeck, L.M. et al. (2020) Biorxiv.

Neuroinvasive capacity of SARS-CoV-2

COVID-19 is generally considered to be primarily a respiratory disease. However, SARS-CoV-2 also affects multiple organs including the central nervous system.   

Researchers recently used the UltraMicroscope II to analyze the distribution of the virus in whole mouse brain. Their paper provides evidence for the neuroinvasive capacity of SARS-CoV2, as well as an unexpected consequence of direct infection of neurons.   

Reference:  
Neuroinvasion  of SARS-CoV-2 in human and mouse brain   
Song, E. et al. (2020) Biorxiv.