Cryo-EM system broadens access to structural biology

Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has become a cornerstone of modern structural biology, allowing scientists to visualise biomolecules in their native state by flash-freezing samples. The technique has already supported the development of therapies ranging from RSV vaccines to GLP-1 drugs. However, access to high-performance cryo-EM has remained limited, with many laboratories requiring extensive infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the technology.

A new system aims to lower that barrier. The Thermo Scientific Glacios 3 Cryo-TEM is designed to make advanced cryo-EM more accessible, delivering high-resolution 200 kV imaging and structural analysis within a more flexible laboratory footprint.

The instrument incorporates an integrated system to reduce the impact of vibrations and environmental disturbances, allowing installation in a wider range of lab environments without major renovation. AI-enabled workflows further streamline data collection and analysis, improving throughput and consistency compared with conventional cryo-EM platforms.

Designed with usability in mind, the system also enhances sample handling and transfer, reducing the risk of contamination while supporting a range of advanced techniques, including single particle analysis, cryo-electron tomography and microcrystal electron diffraction.

Together, these developments aim to broaden access to cryo-EM and support faster, more efficient structure-based drug discovery by enabling more laboratories to generate high-quality structural insights.  

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