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A recently conducted study by physicists from TU Delft in the Netherlands has demonstrated a sub-nanometer resolution, cryogenic electron tomography (cryo-ET) capable of in-situ observation of macromolecular complexes.
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IMAGE: A newly developed cryo Anti-contaminator (CERES Ice Shield) consists of a cryo shutter which protects the sample from ice contamination and thereby improves preparation of the sample by the ion-beam.. view more
Credit: MPI of Molecular Physiology
In comparison to the conventional light microscopy, cryo electron tomography is a powerful tool that offers much deeper insights into the cell structure by unveiling high-resolution 3D views of biological samples such as large macromolecules. In the first step, samples are immobilized by high-speed freezing at extreme temperatures under ?150 °C. These cryogenic conditions make it possible to study samples without chemical fixation or dehydration, thereby preventing distortion or disruption of biological structures of the sample. However, the preparation and the handling of the samples are very complex, since the formation of crystalline ice can compromise the structural integrity of the specimen. Sebastian Tack