Retrofit implementation of Zernike phase plate imaging for cryo-TEM

J Struct Biol. 2011 May;174(2):400-12. doi: 10.1016/j.jsb.2011.01.005. Epub 2011 Jan 25.

Abstract

In-focus phase-plate imaging is particularly beneficial for cryo-TEM because it offers a substantial overall increase in image contrast, without an electron dose penalty, and it simplifies image interpretation. We show how phase-plate cryo-TEM can be implemented with an appropriate existing TEM, and provide a basic practical introduction to use of thin-film (carbon) phase plates. We point out potential pitfalls of phase-plate operation, and discuss solutions. We provide information on evaluating a particular TEM for its suitability.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cryoelectron Microscopy / instrumentation*
  • Cryoelectron Microscopy / methods
  • Electron Microscope Tomography / instrumentation*
  • Electron Microscope Tomography / methods
  • Liver / ultrastructure
  • Rats
  • User-Computer Interface*