Cryo-EM, or cryo-electron microscopy, is a powerful imaging technique used to visualize biological samples at very low temperatures. This method allows scientists to observe the structure of proteins, viruses, and other cellular components in their natural state without the need for staining or fixing, which can alter their properties.
In Cryo-EM, samples are rapidly frozen in liquid ethane, preserving their structure. High-energy electron beams are then used to capture images of these frozen samples from multiple angles. Advanced computer algorithms reconstruct these images into three-dimensional models, providing detailed insights into molecular structures and functions.