Single-particle reconstruction statistics: a diagnostic tool in solving biomolecular structures by cryo-EM

This study revisits the theory of 3D reconstruction and demonstrates how the associated statistics can provide a diagnostic tool to improve SPA. Small numbers of images already give sufficient information on micrograph quality and the amount of data required to reach high resolution. Such feedback allows the microscopist to improve sample-preparation and imaging parameters before committing to extensive data collection. Once a larger data set is available, a B factor can be determined describing the suppression of the signal owing to one or more causes, such as specimen movement, radiation damage, alignment inaccuracy and structural variation. Insight into the causes of signal suppression can then guide the user to consider appropriate actions to obtain better reconstructions.
Source: Acta Crystallographica Section F - Category: Biochemistry Authors: Tags: cryo-EM cryo-electron microscopy spectral signal-to-noise ratio single-particle analysis Fourier shell correlation image processing research communications Source Type: research