cryo EM

Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) is a technique that allows scientists to image frozen biological molecules and determine their 3D shape: Process A sample of a biological molecule is flash-frozen in a thin layer of ice at a very low temperature. Then, electrons are fired at the sample at the speed of light, and a high-tech camera captures the electrons to form an image. Benefits Cryo-EM allows scientists to study the structure and function of biological molecules without the use of dyes or fixatives. This provides a more accurate picture of the molecules and a greater understanding of biological function. Applications Cryo-EM can be used to study viruses, protein complexes, and fine cellular structures. It can help scientists understand how proteins work, how they malfunction in disease, and how to target them with drugs. Limitations Cryo-EM microscopes are expensive, and the freezing process can be finicky. High-end cryo-EM machines can cost more than $5 million to buy, and hundreds of thousands of dollars per year to operate and maintain.