ELECTRON CRYOMICROSCOPY Meaning and
Definition
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Electron cryomicroscopy (Cryo-EM) is a high-resolution imaging technique used to study the structure and function of biological macromolecules at the atomic level. It involves freezing samples in a thin layer of vitreous water to preserve their native state, then imaging them using an electron microscope.
In this technique, a purified sample is placed on a grid, rapidly frozen, and transferred to a specialized electron microscope operating at cryogenic temperatures, typically below -180 degrees Celsius. The frozen sample is then bombarded with a beam of electrons, and the resulting images are captured on a sensitive camera. Cryo-EM allows for the generation of 3D reconstructions and the visualization of molecular structures with near-atomic resolution.
The advantages of electron cryomicroscopy include the ability to study large and complex molecules, such as proteins and viruses, in their native environment without the need for chemical fixation or staining, which can alter their structure. It also enables the imaging of dynamic processes, as samples can be studied at various time points.
Electron cryomicroscopy has revolutionized the field of structural biology, providing valuable insights into the detailed architecture and mechanisms of biological molecules. It has contributed to the understanding of various cellular processes, drug development, and the design of novel therapeutics. With recent advancements in technology, cryo-EM has gained widespread popularity and has become a powerful tool in structural biology research.
Common Misspellings for ELECTRON CRYOMICROSCOPY
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Etymology of ELECTRON CRYOMICROSCOPY
The word "Electron" in "Electron Cryomicroscopy" refers to the subatomic particle known as the electron, which is negatively charged and orbits around the nucleus in an atom.
The term "Cryo" in "Cryomicroscopy" comes from the Greek word "kryos" which means "icy cold" or "frost". In scientific contexts, it is used to refer to very low temperatures, usually below freezing point.
The word "Microscopy" is derived from the Greek words "mikros", meaning "small", and "skopein", meaning "to look" or "to see". Therefore, microscopy is the science and technique of using microscopes to observe and study small objects or organisms that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
