Graphene Oxide‐Supported Microwell Grids for Preparing Cryo‐EM Samples with Controlled Ice Thickness

• DOI: 10.1002/adma.202102991
• Publication Date: 2021-09-12T18:28:52Z
• Authors: Min‐Ho Kang; Junsun Park; Sungsu Kang; Sungho Jeon; Minyoung Lee; Ji‐Yeon Shim; Jeeyoung Lee; Tae Jin Jeon; Min Kyung Ahn; Sung Mi Lee; Ohkyung Kwon; Byung Hyo Kim; Joel R. Meyerson; Min Jae Lee; Kwang‐Il Lim; Soung‐Hun Roh; Won Chul Lee; Jungwon Park
• Keywords: Biomolecule; Sample Preparation

Abstract Cryogenic‐electron microscopy (cryo‐EM) is the preferred method to determine 3D structures of proteins and study diverse material systems that intrinsically have radiation or air sensitivity. Current cryo‐EM sample preparation methods provide limited control over quality, which limits efficiency high throughput structure analysis. This partly because it difficult thickness vitreous ice embeds specimens, in range nanoscale, depending on size type materials interest. Thus, there a need for fine regulation deliver consistent signal‐to‐noise ratios low‐contrast biological specimens. Herein, an advanced silicon‐chip‐based device developed has regular array micropatterned holes with graphene oxide (GO) window freestanding silicon nitride (Si x N y ). Accurately regulated depths enable precise thickness. Furthermore, GO affinity biomolecules can facilitate concentration molecules at higher level. Incorporation chips enhances imaging various nanoscale samples including human immunodeficiency viral particles, groEL tetradecamers, apoferritin octahedral, aldolase homotetramer complexes, tau filaments, as well inorganic materials.