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Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Cryo-Structured Illumination Microscopic Data Collection from Cryogenically Preserved Cells
Published on: May 28, 2021
Retrofit implementation of Zernike phase plate imaging for cryo-TEM
Michael Marko1, Ardean Leith, Chyongere Hsieh
1Resource for Visualization of Biological Complexity, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12201-0509, USA. marko@wadsworth.org
Abstract:
In-focus phase-plate imaging is particularly beneficial for cryo-TEM because it offers a substantial overall increase in image contrast, without an electron dose penalty, and it simplifies image interpretation. We show how phase-plate cryo-TEM can be implemented with an appropriate existing TEM, and provide a basic practical introduction to use of thin-film (carbon) phase plates. We point out potential pitfalls of phase-plate operation, and discuss solutions. We provide information on evaluating a particular TEM for its suitability.
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