Cryo-electron tomography: methodology, developments and biological applications

J Microsc. 2011 Jun;242(3):221-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2818.2010.03478.x. Epub 2010 Dec 23.

Abstract

Cryo-electron tomography allows three-dimensional visualization of frozen-hydrated, vitrified biological material at molecular resolution. Here, we summarize the most important sample preparation methods and technical aspects relevant for cryo-electron tomography, as well as its recent biological applications from isolated macromolecular complexes to entire cells and tissues.

MeSH terms

  • Cryoelectron Microscopy / methods*
  • Electron Microscope Tomography / methods*
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods