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September 10, 2025Open Access

Sub-3 Å resolution protein structure determination by single-particle cryo-EM at 100 keV

Key Points

Sub-3 Å resolution structures of proteins were achieved using a 100 keV cryo-TEM, enabling detailed biological insights.
Key structures determined include apoferritin at 2.1 Å and T20S proteasome at 2.7 Å, showcasing exceptional resolution capabilities.
Using a Tundra cryo-TEM equipped with Falcon C DED, we enhanced data collection quality while minimizing contamination.
This advancement indicates potential widespread use of lower voltage transmission electron microscopes for high-resolution protein analysis.

Abstract

Cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) has transformed structural biology by providing high-resolution insights into biological macromolecules. We report sub-3 Å resolution structures using the 100 keV Tundra cryo-TEM, equipped with the Falcon C direct electron detector (DED). This system combines advanced optics, extreme-brightness field emission gun (XFEG), and SP-TWIN lens to enhance coherence and resolution. The semi-automated loader reduced contamination and drift, enabling extended data collection, while the high detective quantum efficiency (DQE) of Falcon C improved signal-to-noise ratio. We validated performance by determining structures of biological samples, including apoferritin (2.1 Å), T20S proteasome (2.7 Å), GABAA receptor (2.8 Å), hemoglobin (5.0 Å), transthyretin (3.5 Å), and AAV9 capsid (2.8 Å), spanning 50 kDa-3.9 MDa. This work highlights the potential of 100 keV transmission electron microscopes (TEMs) to make cryo-EM more accessible. It sets a precedent for using lower voltage TEMs not only for screening, but also for high-resolution protein structure determination.

Sub-3 Å resolution protein structure determination by single-particle cryo-EM at 100 keV

Key Points

Abstract

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