Laser-assisted cryoEM method preserves protein structure
Combining mass spectrometry, or MS, and cryogenic electron microscopy, or cryoEM, has long promised high-resolution 3D reconstructions of proteins. Past attempts were limited by low resolution and protein compaction.
Keaton Mertz, Drew Jordahl and colleagues at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the Morgridge Institute for Research developed a laser-assisted cryoEM method that overcomes these barriers, paving the way for broader MS–cryoEM integration. They published their findings in Molecular & Cellular Proteomics.
The method uses a laser built into transmission electron microscopy grids to liquefy ice particles. When the laser is turned off, proteins rehydrate and regain their native structure before refreezing, producing samples suitable for reconstruction.
Testing with β-galactosidase, the team showed that protein structure was restored without compaction. Results matched those from conventional plunge freezing but with fewer distortions. The researchers expect the technique will enable studies of more complex protein systems.
Enjoy reading ASBMB Today?
Become a member to receive the print edition four times a year and the digital edition monthly.
Learn moreGet the latest from ASBMB Today
Enter your email address, and we’ll send you a weekly email with recent articles, interviews and more.
Latest in Science
Science highlights or most popular articles
The molecular orchestra of memory
Calcium, calmodulin and calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II form a molecular axis that turns fleeting neural activity into lasting memories. New research shows how memories are stabilized, and possibly even protected or repaired.
Differences in pili structure modulate bacterial behavior
Researchers demonstrate how small changes in the structure of hair-like protein appendages can affect the behavior of Acinetobacter bacteria.
Cholesterol regulatory genes predict liver transplant outcomes
Researchers identify a link between cholesterol-regulating genes and liver transplant success, which could improve donor screening and patient outcomes.
Lipid signatures for a rare neurological disorder
Researchers find distinct lipid patterns linked to a rare autoimmune neurological disorder, offering hope for effective targeted therapies for patients.
Disease-linked mutations disrupt protein phase behavior
Researchers find that pathogenic missense mutations are enriched threefold in phrase-separating intrinsically disordered regions of proteins.
The dual role of asprosin in chronic fatty liver disease
Researchers uncover a hormone called asprosin that may serve as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of chronic fatty liver disease and monitoring disease progression.