Cryo-Electron Microscopy - Ask the Experts On Demand

Ask the Experts: September 27, 2023 | From molecules to medicines: Exploration with cryo-EM

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As advancements in structural biology continue to redefine our understanding of complex biological systems, the role of cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) in elucidating molecular structures has emerged as a game changer. In this webinar, we delve into the transformative potential of cryo-EM for drug and disease research. Guided by experts at the forefront of both of both translational studies and cryo-EM technology, we explore the seamless transition from conventional techniques to this cutting-edge imaging approach. Through real-world case studies and engaging discussions, you will gain a clear understanding of how cryo-EM can empower your research by revealing unprecedented structural details.

Ask the Experts: June 21, 2023 | After one year with Smart EPU Software, what’s new?

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In this Ask the Experts webinar, we reviewed the capabilities that have since been added to Smart EPU Software. Our panel also discusses how these improvements and features help them streamline their cryo-EM single particle analysis (SPA) workflow.

Ask the Experts: May 10, 2023 | Enhance your tomography skills with Tomography 5 Software

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Thermo Scientific Tomography 5 Software makes it easy to start collecting tomography data, no matter your level of experience. It delivers a user-friendly interface and can be combined with Thermo Scientific Tomo Live Software to enable on-the-fly quality monitoring. And for the first time, it automates tomogram reconstruction. In this webinar, our panel of experts demonstrate everything from the basics to the most advanced features. We explore the full potential of both Tomography 5 and Tomo Live Software to show how the programs can help you enhance your tomography workflow.

Ask the Experts: March 22, 2023 | Leveraging the integration of cryo-EM and X-ray based methods for a comprehensive approach to structural biology

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In this webinar, we'll discuss research on submicron crystal detection and handling as well as the collaboration between the National Crystallization Center and the Cryo-EM Center at the Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, where the teams are working to further develop microcrystal methods.

Ask the Experts: February 8, 2023 | National Cryo-EM Centers: A Go-To Resource for Getting Started in Cryo-EM

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Cryo-electron microscopy centers are some of the most valuable resources to the cryo-EM scientific community, and they continue to grow in their capabilities and offerings each year. In the US, the NIH Common Fund has created three cryo-EM service centers and a network of four cryo-electron-tomography specific centers that provide access to cryo-EM instrumentation and periodic training programs. In Europe, Instruct ERIC and iNEXT-Discovery have extensive networks that offer access to cryo-EM instruments, including cryo-EM, cryo-ET, and correlative imaging. In this webinar, we will discuss routes to access cryo-EM infrastructure and training.

Ask the Experts: November 9, 2022 | Simplifying Cryo-EM with the Latest Innovative Tools

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Get answers you are seeking when preparing samples for cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), especially when you are working with challenging proteins. Many hard-learned discoveries over the years have led to innovative solutions that can help you gain confidence with sample preparation. In this webinar, we’ll discuss the tools and technologies now available as well as tips and tricks to help you get optimal results from highly difficult proteins.

Ask the Experts: September 27, 2022 | Getting Started in Cryo-EM - Basics of Data Collection for Single Particle Analysis

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Watch this webinar to learn more about how scientists are using cryo-EM to accelerate their research, how cryo-EM can expand your 3D structure analysis for proteins and other macromolecules, and considerations for data collection in cryo-transmission electron microscopes.

Virtual Workshop: September 20, 2022 | High-throughput cryo-EM analysis of viral glycoproteins

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The importance of virus research has never been clearer. Thanks to the developments in cryo-EM, we can now routinely obtain structures of viruses, viral proteins, and virus-antibody immune complexes in 3D. These cryo-EM structures allow epitope mapping and facilitate vaccine and drug development. Our virtual workshop demonstrates the cryo-EM workflow from sample preparation to the final 3D volume of viral glycoproteins focusing on sample-specific challenges and solutions. Join our Application Scientists who discuss challenges and solutions to sample preparation of viral glycoproteins and perform data collection with EPU Multigrid and data processing. Also, learn about SARS-CoV-2 research from a talk by Dr. Daniel Hurdiss, a cryo-EM and virology expert from Utrecht University.

Ask the Experts: July 14, 2022 | Focusing the spotlight on MicroED

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The latest electron microscopy technologies enable efficient detection of electron diffraction spot patterns for the crystallographic determination of molecular structures. This electron-based technique, called microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED), produces scattering from smaller samples, making it an attractive alternative for the structural analysis of biological macromolecules that do not form large crystals. It can also be used for the structural determination of small molecules and complements organic compound synthesis validation. In this session, you will learn from the pioneers of MicroED who discuss common practices in the workflow, factors for getting started, and the variety of applications possible in this field.

Ask the Experts: June 21, 2022 | TEM for Biological Applications

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Core microscopy facilities are increasingly seeking versatile instruments to accommodate a broader range of applications in the biological sciences. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) technology is adapting to accommodate high-resolution TEM and scanning transmission electron microscope imaging for characterization of soft materials, while still permitting diverse applications in both room temperature and cryogenic conditions.

Ask the Experts: June 8, 2022 | Where cryo-EM meets AI – Bringing innovation to drug discovery

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Structured-based drug discovery is making great advances aided by improved computational power, artificial intelligence (AI), and faster experimental structure determination. Combining AI and cryo-EM in the drug discovery process enables scientists to get a new drug candidate into the clinic faster. In this Ask the Experts webinar, Shuimu Biosciences demonstrates how workflow innovations can help with identifying new targets and modalities to accelerate drug development. Our panel also discusses the future of AI and cryo-EM.

Ask the Experts: April 20, 2022 | Career paths in cryo-EM

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Career opportunities within the field of cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) are increasing exponentially to keep pace with the growing number of studies and solutions that utilize the technology. Find out how faculty and students alike can gain the necessary expertise to work in this in-demand field.

Ask the Experts: March 30, 2022 | Mass spectrometry for 3D structural determination with cryo-electron microscopy

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Mass spectrometry has made significant advances in the field of structural biology. In combination with cryo-electron microscopy, a reliable and complete structure can be solved for macromolecular complexes comprised of components like proteins, post-translational protein modifications, DNA, RNA, and lipids. These two techniques have proven to be complementary methods in answering biological questions.

Ask the Experts: January 26, 2022 | Debunking cryo-EM misconceptions

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Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) is a commonly misunderstood technique. Discover the facts behind several popular misconceptions and learn more about how cryo-EM has revolutionized applications developments in virology, neurology, oncology, and more.

Ask the Experts: October 20, 2021 | Strategies for successful grant writing

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Hear from Dr. Christopher Dant from Medcom Consulting as he discusses proven strategies for writing successful S10 grants. In this session, you’ll also learn about resources and grant writing support offered by Thermo Fisher Scientific experts, who are there for you and your lab every step of the way.

Ask the Experts: September 15, 2021 | Selectris Imaging Filters for better resolution

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Thermo Scientific Selectris X Imaging Filters allow you to see protein structures at unprecedented resolution. Learn more about the exciting results of our newest Thermo Scientific upgrade and find out how it can help you accelerate your structural analysis.

Ask the Experts: August 11, 2021 | Cryo-EM training with Purdue’s CryoVR virtual reality system

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In 2018, the Purdue cryo-EM facility was awarded a grant from the National Institutes of Health to develop virtual reality training tools for cryo-EM. Join this interactive session with Dr. Wen Jiang and Dr. Yingjie Victor Chen of Purdue University to learn about the innovative CryoVR system designed to familiarize new users with cryo-EM equipment in a safe, low-risk environment.

Ask the Experts: July 21, 2021 | Democratizing cryo-EM with the Tundra Cryo-TEM

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Accessible cryo-EM is revolutionizing structural biology research. Hear about the latest technical developments of the new Thermo Scientific Tundra Cryo-TEM, a must-have tool for both new and existing labs. Our experts will discuss the assisted automation and operation of the instrument along with new structures of apoferritin, T20S proteasome, and the GABAA receptor.

Ask the Experts: June 30, 2021 | Integrated gene-to-cryo-EM-structure workflow for challenging targets

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Learn about the Proteros gene-to-cryo-EM-structure integrated workflow and why it’s an integral part of a successful cryo-EM process. In this session, you’ll also learn about the benefits of using cryo-EM for challenging drug targets and how to design an effective cryo-EM project.

Ask the Experts: May 5, 2021 | What bacteria and archaea really look like

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Richard Feynman said, “It is very easy to answer many of these fundamental biological questions; you just look at the thing!” Chasing answers to various biological questions, Dr. Grant Jensen and his lab at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have looked at dozens of different species of bacteria and archaea with a cryo-electron microscope. To date, the Jensen Lab at Caltech has recorded tens of thousands of tomograms, or 3D images, of viral and microbial samples. Dr. Jensen also created a publicly available online course, Getting Started in Cryo-EM, about the fundamentals of cryo-electron microscopy. Continuing their outreach to inspire the next generation of cell biologists and microscopists, the team has recently produced an open textbook called the Atlas of Bacterial & Archaeal Cell Structure. Join us for an interactive Ask the Experts session with the Jensen Lab to get answers to some of your most intriguing biological questions.

Ask the Experts: April 15, 2021 | 3D volume imaging with plasma-FIB for life sciences

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Expand your vision with the Thermo Scientific Helios 5 Hydra DualBeam, a multi-ion plasma-FIB instrument for undertaking biological FIB-SEM tomography. It offers fast, efficient milling and enhanced beam compatibility with most resin types and sample preparation methods used in life science research. The Helios 5 Hydra DualBeam opens new avenues for 3D analysis by accessing large, horizontal surfaces (up to 1 mm in diameter), extending the potential of FIB-SEM tomography for ultrastructural studies in life sciences.

Ask the Experts: April 1, 2021 | Integrating cryo-EM into your existing drug development process

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Ask the Experts session on integrating cryo-EM into your existing drug development process. Get answers to common questions like how and when to integrate, find out which samples are suitable for cryo-EM and when to choose that technology over traditional methods like crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance, and learn more about your options for outsourcing cryo-EM. This session includes a short presentation from NanoImaging Services followed by our Q&A. Ask questions, get answers, and engage with experts who can help you understand how to harness the unique advantages of cryo-EM in your own drug development projects.

Ask the Experts: March 30, 2021 | Optimizing Samples for Successful Grid Preparation

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This session highlights common biochemistry and vitrification problems encountered in cryo-EM sample preparation and how to overcome them. Find out how to optimize and screen your samples prior to vitrification to help increase successful grid preparation. Hear about the ins and outs of vitrification using the Vitrobot Mk 4.

Ask the Experts: December 9, 2020 | Enhanced automation for high throughput cryo-EM screening and data collection for drug design

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December 9 Ask the Experts webinar highlighting recent advances in cryo-EM automation for increased productivity to provide structural insights for your drug discovery pipeline. This is an opportunity for you to learn from your peers, including Andreas Schenk (Novartis) and Ben Apker (MiTeGen) discussing how the current state of the art cryo-EM workflow automations compares to X-ray crystallography in terms throughput and resolution.

Ask the Experts: September 9, 2020 | Routine sub-2.5 Å cryo-EM structure determination of GPCRs for drug design

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Single-particle cryo-EM of GPCRs at high resolution is a rapidly developing field with a constant stream of new biological and pharmacological discoveries. We invited several leading academic investigators to discuss and answer questions about this exciting field.

Ask the Experts: July 29, 2020 | How a phase plate can help support your cryo-EM research

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Watch this webinar and walk away with practical tips for using the Volta phase plate to support your cryo-EM research and discover ideal applications for using the phase plate.

Ask the Experts: July 15, 2020 | Getting started with cryo-EM

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In this webinar, we cover a number of things you need to know to get started with cryo-EM, including two of the most important: setting up the room for your instrument and setting up your lab for sample prep. This session will help you overcome hurdles to using cryo-EM in your lab and provide you with other helpful tips and tricks to get started.

Ask the Experts: July 1, 2020 | Sample preparation and optimization for cryo-EM using the Vitrobot

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Frozen hydrated sample prep and optimization is often times the rate-limiting step in single-particle analysis. Watch this Ask the Experts Q&A session to learn tips and tricks for improving frozen hydrated cryo-EM sample preparation utilizing the Vitrobot.

Ask the Experts: June 24, 2020 | Single-Particle Cryo-EM: Detectors and New Data Formats (EER)

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Watch this Ask the Experts Q&A session on single-particle cryo-EM for an engaging and interactive discussion about new detectors, optimal detector usage, and new detector data formats, like electron-event representation (EER).

Ask the Experts: June 17, 2020 | Making cryo-EM more accessible

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This Q&A session features an engaging discussion focused on cryo-EM instrumentation. There are many misconceptions about how to fund cryo-EM instruments. We will answer questions about alternative financing mechanisms that can lower the barrier to acquire cryo-EM instrumentation.

Ask the Experts: May 29, 2020 | EPU Software

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Users of EPU Software will learn about new features and how automation can simplify running Single Particle Analysis (SPA) data acquisition. This is the ideal format to ask experts, with hands-on EPU Software expertise, a variety of questions on the topic.

Ask the Experts: May 22, 2020 | Cryo-Electron Tomography: In Situ Structural Biology

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Cryo-Electron Tomography (Cryo-ET) is a rapidly growing area of research. Researchers, either currently performing Cryo-ET or interesting in learning about the technique, will be able to ask experts various question about the method. This will include updates on the current state of the technique, as well as specifics on how to operate the instrumentation.

Ask the Experts: May 21, 2020 | "Source Brightness" Explained

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The term ‘Source Brightness’ has been confusing many microscopists as to what it means for applicable capabilities. This webinar is aimed at explaining the brightness concept for beginners and also illustrates how a brighter source is not always better for all applications. It also introduces a term ‘Coherent Current’ which may be a more acceptable form of defining not only an emitting source but also the associated condenser systems to define the useable probe current for analytical purposes at the sample.

Ask the Experts: May 15, 2020 | Fringe-Free Imaging

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Watch our third Ask the Experts Q&A session for an engaging and interactive discussion focused on Fringe-Free Imaging (FFI). There is great deal of interest in FFI but very limited knowledge on the practical application of the technique or understanding of the throughput improvement that can be accomplished with it.

Ask the Experts: May 6, 2020 | Micro-Electron Diffraction (MicroED)

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Watch our second “Ask the Experts” Q&A session for an engaging and interactive discussion on MicroED. There is a great deal of interest in MicroED but very limited knowledge on the practical application of the technique or understanding of the specific science that can be accomplished with it.

Ask the Experts: May 1, 2020 | Aberration Free Image Shift (AFIS)

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View this Q&A session for an engaging and interactive discussion that will host questions from a wide audience on the practical and theoretical aspects of Aberration Free Image Shift (AFIS). This technique has been proven to provide a substantial throughput increase in single particle analysis (SPA) data acquisition.

Ask the Experts: December 8, 2019 | Cryo-EM and Your Research

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Dr. Alex Rigort, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Dr. Edward Eng, New York Structural Biology Center, and Dr. Elizabeth Wright, University of Wisconsin-Madison, experts in the field of structural cellular biology, discuss advances in cryo-electron microscopy and tomography (cryo-EM and cryo-ET), including sample preparation and how the advances in this technology are advancing our understanding of cellular ultrastructure.