CRYOELECTRON MICROSCOPIES Meaning and
Definition
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Cryoelectron microscopy is a powerful imaging technique used to study the structures of biological molecules and complexes at near-atomic resolution. It combines the principles of electron microscopy and cryogenic sample preparation to visualize specimens in their native state, without the need for harsh chemical fixation or staining.
In cryoelectron microscopy, samples are rapidly frozen to extremely low temperatures (typically below -180°C) to preserve their structural integrity. This freezing process, known as vitrification, forms an amorphous, glass-like state that prevents the formation of ice crystals, which can damage delicate biological specimens.
The frozen samples are then placed in a specialized electron microscope, equipped with a cryo-specimen holder. The microscope operates under high vacuum conditions to minimize electron scattering and image distortions. A beam of electrons is directed towards the sample, and the interaction of the electrons with the specimen generates high-resolution images.
Cryoelectron microscopy has revolutionized structural biology by enabling the visualization of complex macromolecular assemblies, such as viruses, cellular organelles, and large protein complexes. It has been instrumental in elucidating the structures of membrane proteins, which are notoriously challenging to study using other techniques.
Advancements in cryoelectron microscopy, such as the introduction of direct electron detectors and computational image processing algorithms, have further improved its resolution and applicability. Cryoelectron microscopy is now widely used in various fields, including biochemistry, biophysics, and drug discovery, to unravel the molecular basis of biological processes and aid in the development of novel therapeutics.
Common Misspellings for CRYOELECTRON MICROSCOPIES
- xryoelectron microscopies
- vryoelectron microscopies
- fryoelectron microscopies
- dryoelectron microscopies
- ceyoelectron microscopies
- cdyoelectron microscopies
- cfyoelectron microscopies
- ctyoelectron microscopies
- c5yoelectron microscopies
- c4yoelectron microscopies
- crtoelectron microscopies
- crgoelectron microscopies
- crhoelectron microscopies
- cruoelectron microscopies
- cr7oelectron microscopies
- cr6oelectron microscopies
- cryielectron microscopies
- crykelectron microscopies
- crylelectron microscopies
- crypelectron microscopies
Etymology of CRYOELECTRON MICROSCOPIES
The term "cryoelectron microscopies" has a compound etymology:
1. Cryo-: It comes from the Greek word "κρύο" (kryo) meaning "cold" or "frost". In scientific terminology, "cryo-" refers to extremely low temperatures or cold conditions.
2. Electron: It originates from the ancient Greek word "ἤλεκτρον" (ēlektron) which referred to amber, a substance that could generate static electricity when rubbed. Over time, the term "electron" came to represent a subatomic particle with a negative charge.
3. Microscopy: It is derived from the ancient Greek word "μικρός" (mikrós) meaning "small" and the suffix "-scopy" which refers to the inspection or observation of something.
