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Three-Dimensional Analysis of Single Particles by Electron Microscopy

Sample Preparation and Data Acquisition

  • Protocol
Cell Imaging Techniques

Part of the book series: Methods in Molecular Biology™ ((MIMB,volume 319))

Abstract

Electron microscopy of single particles has recently become a very popular field in both biological and material sciences. It might be difficult for a novice researcher new to this field to know how to start tackling a new project. This chapter is designed to serve as a guideline for anyone starting a new project to determine a three-dimensional structure using single-particle techniques. The chapter describes the basic techniques necessary to prepare the samples and acquire the data to calculate a three-dimensional reconstruction in easy-to-understand, step-by-step instructions. It starts with the basic preparation of support films and the usage of a variety of staining techniques needed to assess the quality of the sample and the viability of the project. It ends with a detailed description of vitreous ice preparations designed to acquire high-resolution structural information. Guidelines and tips are given on how to record the best images with an electron microscope. Although this chapter is geared to researchers new to the field, experts might find it not only useful as a reference but also valuable because of the number of practical tips included.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT

    Teresa Ruiz & Michael Radermacher

Authors
  1. Teresa Ruiz
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  2. Michael Radermacher
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pathology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT

    Douglas J. Taatjes  & Brooke T. Mossman  & 

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© 2006 Humana Press Inc.

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Ruiz, T., Radermacher, M. (2006). Three-Dimensional Analysis of Single Particles by Electron Microscopy. In: Taatjes, D.J., Mossman, B.T. (eds) Cell Imaging Techniques. Methods in Molecular Biology™, vol 319. Humana Press. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59259-993-6_19

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59259-993-6_19

  • Publisher Name: Humana Press

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-58829-157-8

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-59259-993-6

  • eBook Packages: Springer Protocols

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