Atomically Thin Bilayer Janus Membranes for Cryo-electron Microscopy.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biophysics
• Electron Microscopy

Background:

• Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) is crucial for analyzing beam-sensitive samples.
• Specimen preparation challenges limit high-resolution cryo-EM analysis.
• A robust supporting film is needed for desirable sample preparation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an improved supporting film for cryo-EM.
• To enhance the resolution and stability of cryo-EM imaging.
• To enable atomic-resolution characterization of biomolecules and materials.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a bilayer Janus graphene membrane.
• Functionalization of the top graphene layer for molecular interaction.
• Maintenance of an intact bottom graphene layer for mechanical support.
• Application of the membrane in cryo-electron microscopy specimen preparation.

Main Results:

• The bilayer Janus membrane provides an ultraclean and atomically thin support.
• The membrane minimizes noise and specimen motion during cryo-EM imaging.
• Atomic-resolution imaging of surface functional groups was achieved.
• Direct imaging of lithium dendrites and near-atomic resolution reconstruction of macromolecules were demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• The bilayer Janus graphene membrane design is a promising support for high-resolution cryo-EM.
• This material addresses key limitations in cryo-EM specimen preparation.
• The developed membrane facilitates advanced imaging of diverse samples.