Affordable High-Resolution Cryo-EM with LaB6 Microscopes
Author Information
Author(s): Venugopal Hariprasad, Mobbs Jesse, Taveneau Cyntia, Fox Daniel R., Vuckovic Ziva, Gulati Sahil, Knott Gavin, Grinter Rhys, Thal David, Mick Stephen, Czarnik Cory, Ramm Georg
Primary Institution: Monash University
Hypothesis
Can a standard 120-keV TEM with a LaB6 source be upgraded for high-resolution cryo-EM using a sub–200-keV direct electron detector?
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that a standard 120-keV LaB6 electron microscope can achieve high-resolution cryo-EM at a lower cost, making the technology more accessible.
Supporting Evidence
- The study achieved a 2.65 Å resolution for apoferritin and 4.4 Å for a 153-kDa membrane protein.
- Results indicate that the upgraded microscope can collect large cryo-EM datasets effectively.
- The findings suggest a pathway to democratize cryo-EM technology.
Takeaway
Scientists found a way to use cheaper electron microscopes to take really clear pictures of tiny things, which helps more people do this kind of research.
Methodology
The study involved retrofitting a standard 120-keV LaB6 TEM with a sub–200-keV direct electron detector and testing its performance on various biological samples.
Limitations
The study acknowledges that the LaB6 source has inherent limitations in resolution compared to higher-end microscopes.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website