Scientists make mouse skin transparent using common food dye, echoing HG Wells’ ‘Invisible Man’ – Times of India

A recent study has found that a common food dye, tartrazine, can make the skin of living mice temporarily transparent, allowing for easier visualization of internal structures without invasive procedures. This breakthrough in biomedical imaging techniques could revolutionize medical diagnostics and imaging. The dye works by altering the refractive indices of tissues, reducing light scattering and making the skin see-through. This non-invasive method could potentially aid in early cancer detection, improve vein visibility for blood draws, and offer a dynamic view of living tissues. While not yet tested on humans, researchers are optimistic about the future applications of this innovative technique.