Revolutionary resolution delivers better results

Gatan, an AMETEK business, is the world’s leading manufacturer of instrumentation and software used to enhance and extend the operation and performance of electron microscopes. Their K3® camera is a true next-generation technology: A unique direct-detection camera that uses electron counting with super-resolution technology to record high-resolution images of particles. These images are then analyzed with image classification algorithms to distinguish between multiple orientations of the 3D molecule. The K3 is optimized for low-dose electron microscopy (EM) applications in life science and materials science research.

The Challenge

Capturing the detail needed for molecular study

Creating 3D atomic-scale maps of existing and newly discovered viruses is key to the rapid development of vaccines, therapeutic antibodies, and other medical countermeasures. Structural biologists frequently use cryo-EM to study viruses, but when conventional cameras for electron microscopy are used, a loss of high-resolution detail prevents cryo-EM from achieving its true potential. Gatan technology uses breakthrough direct- detection technology to directly measure the electron image, avoiding detail loss from conventional camera image conversions.

 

The Solution

Enabling the development of effective treatments

The K3 can map the spike protein of viruses – the area any virus uses to penetrate host cells, allowing it to replicate. With single- particle cryo-electron microscopy, researchers can determine the atomic structure of the spikes, helping to explain the virus’s resistance to antibodies used to disable similar illnesses. The K3 camera’s imaging performance prevents data collection from becoming a bottleneck, enabling more rapid determination of the structure and facilitating the swift development of vaccines and other treatments. Discover more about Gatan microscopy technologies at gatan.com