Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) Service
Creative Bioarray has scientists and imaging laboratories to perform the full comprehensive Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) Service for the biological sciences and clinical research including plant samples, animal samples, bacteria, and pathology specimens. Our experienced experts are available to provide guidance in experiment design for the most appropriate sample collection, preparation and evaluation. We also offer professional pathology consultation on the images and results.
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) is a technique which high energy electrons are transmitted through electron transparent samples (~100nm thick). These thin samples interact with the electrons as it passes through it. An image is formed while electron transmitted through the sample. Another technique is called Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), which is a similar method to image samples using electron beam. STEM is distinguished from TEM by focusing the electron beam into a narrow spot which is scanned over the sample in a raster. By using TEM or STEM, a high-quality image could be generated at atomic scale resolution which is around 1-2Å. The images are applied in cancer research, virology, material science and other basic research.
Shaham, S., ed., WormBook: Methods in Cell Biology (January 02, 2006)
TEM and STEM have better spatial resolution than Scanning electron microscope (SEM). However, it usually requires more complex sample preparation and takes more time than normal analytical tools. In order to provide high resolution information and details on the structure and function, all samples should be kept in native state with ~100nm thickness. Creative Bioarray offers conventional TEM and STEM fixation and embedding procedures. Of also offer negative staining for particles in suspension (bacteria, viruses, lipids, etc.). Immunogold labeling procedures are available for specific localization of cell components. We also offer complete services to help you achieve your specific research goals.
Assays Available:
- Particle Size Analysis
Creative Bioarray can analyze size of particles and nanoparticles down to 1 nm in size. We use SEM or TEM. Depending on the rough size of the particles you are expecting, you have a choice of techniques to use, either SEM for nanoparticles over 50 nm and particles of all sizes or TEM for nanoparticles under 50 nm. After the analysis, we provide you with the particle size distribution and descriptive statistics of your sample. - Negative Staining-TEM for Samples (Bacteria, virus, Lipids, etc.)
Isolated organelles, bacteria and viruses pose a problem when imaging in a TEM since they do not have high enough contrast (they are not electron-dense). For this purpose, Creative Bioarray use negative staining. It is the perfect tool when it comes to size distribution of liposomes, exosomes or polymer nanoparticles. Viral vectors (AAV, Adeno-virus, lentiviruses, etc.) are widely used delivery vectors in research and gene therapy. Negative stain TEM (nsTEM) provides detailed information about overall morphology of the viral vector samples. - Immuno-TEM
Immuno-TEM is used to localize molecules at the ultrastructural level by labeling them with specific antibodies. Labelling of molecules uses antibodies similarly to light microscopy. For secondary antibody we use antibodies with gold nanoparticles attached because they are high contrast structures to observe in electron microscope. - Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (cryoTEM)
CryoTEM has evolved into an essential tool for the characterization of colloidal drug delivery systems. The application of this technique is not only confined to size analysis, but also the shape and internal structure of nanoparticulate carrier systems as well as the overall colloidal composition of corresponding dispersions. For example, cryoTEM can provide the data of the ratio of filled and empty capsids, which is a critical quality attribute requirement for any AAV vector manufacturing process. - Imaging with SEM
With SEM, you can examine biological materials (such as microorganisms and cells), a variety of large molecules, medical biopsy samples, metals and crystalline structures, rock and meteorites, thin films and coatings and the characteristics of various surfaces.
Creative Bioarray provides the following services which include, but not limited to:
- Conventional fixation, dehydration and embedding
- Specimen sectioning
- Negative Staining for samples (Bacteria, virus, Lipids, etc.)
- Specific nanoparticle staining
- Nanoparticle size distributions
- Immunoelectron microscopy
- Phase identification
- Electron diffraction
- Elemental analysis
- Chemical state analysis
- Viral and particle quantification
Besides the routine services, we also provide custom service for your special samples and specific requirements.
We collect images of your samples and specimen via TEM and STEM and provide report which includes:
- High resolution images
- Elemental analyses as spot line profiles and elemental maps
- Professional pathology consultation
Staffed with experts with more than 10 years' experience in electron microscopy, Creative Bioarray stands out as an experienced and professional service provider of TEM and STEM. Contact us now to get quick support for your project.
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