Approach and method developments
Integrative approach
Understanding a process from the molecular to the cellular level requires an approach that reveals details at different scales. Our key technique cryo-electron tomography (cryoET) resolves complexes inside intact cells, in a life-like state, in three dimensions, and to macromolecular resolution. CryoET complemented with high-resolution structural techniques, light microscopy and functional assays is key to establishing a profound understanding of cellular mechanisms.
Cryo-electron tomography (cryoET) data collection
Recent advances in instrumentation and software developments allowed us to significantly external page speed-up data collection.
Sample thinning by cryo-focused ion beam milling
CryoET is limited to samples with a diameter of well below 800 nm. In order to image thicker samples, e.g. infected eukaryotic cells, we have established a external page workflow using cryo-focused ion beam milling to generate lamellae that are thin enough for cryoET imaging. In collaboration with Zeiss, we developed a method for external page automating the generation of lamellae.
