Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 25, 2026

Microcrystal Electron Diffraction of Small Molecules
Published on: March 15, 2021
The cryo-EM method microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED)
Brent L Nannenga1,2, Tamir Gonen3,4
1Chemical Engineering, School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA. Brent.Nannenga@asu.edu.
Abstract:
In 2013 we established a cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) technique called microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED). Since that time, data collection and analysis schemes have been fine-tuned, and structures for more than 40 different proteins, oligopeptides and organic molecules have been determined. Here we review the MicroED technique and place it in context with other structure-determination methods. We showcase example structures solved by MicroED and provide practical advice to prospective users.
Related Concept Videos
Cryo-electron Microscopy
Interference and Diffraction
Interaction of EM Radiation with Matter: Spectroscopy
X-ray Diffraction of Biological Samples
According to Bragg's law, when X-rays strike the sample positioned on a stage, the rays are scattered by the electron clouds around the sample atoms. The X-ray diffraction or scattering is caused by constructive interference of the X-ray waves that reflect off the internal...
Dual Nature of Electromagnetic (EM) Radiation
Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive peaks (the highest point) or troughs (the lowest point) in the wave. Frequency is the number of...
Electron Carriers
Over the many stages of cellular respiration, glucose breaks down into carbon dioxide and water. Electron carriers pick up electrons lost by glucose in these reactions, temporarily storing and releasing them into the electron...

