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Best practices for correctly identifying coronavirus by transmission electron microscopy
Hannah A Bullock1, Cynthia S Goldsmith2, Sara E Miller3
1Synergy America, Inc., Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Kidney International
|January 25, 2021
Summary
This guidance offers strategies for identifying coronaviruses using transmission electron microscopy. It details virus morphology and potential cellular mimics for accurate coronavirus detection.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Virology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Coronaviruses are a significant public health concern.
- Accurate identification of coronaviruses is crucial for diagnosis and research.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a key technique for visualizing viral particles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide clear strategies for identifying coronaviruses using TEM.
- To differentiate coronavirus morphology from similar cellular structures.
- To guide researchers in the accurate detection and documentation of coronaviruses.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for ultrathin sections of tissues and infected cell cultures.
- Detailed examination of coronavirus morphology, including size, shape, and surface features.
- Comparison of viral structures with known cellular organelles that may present similar appearances.
Main Results:
- Established criteria for distinguishing coronavirus particles from cellular debris or organelles.
- Highlighted key morphological features specific to coronaviruses observable via TEM.
- Identified potential pitfalls and caveats in TEM-based coronavirus identification.
Conclusions:
- TEM is a reliable method for coronavirus identification when specific morphological criteria are applied.
- Understanding cellular mimicry is essential for avoiding misidentification.
- This guidance facilitates accurate and reproducible coronavirus detection in research settings.
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