Revolutionary Breakthrough of Structure Determination——Recent Advances of Electron Direct Detection Device Application in Cryo-EM

Recent advances in Cryo-EM have made it possible to solve numerous structures of asymmetric macromolecules at high resolution(3~5 魡), allowing for de novo modeling. In comparison to NMR and X-ray methods, cryo-EM possesses a remarkable advantage for studying large macromolecules, requiring small amounts of material and no crystallization of the macromolecules being studied. Its tremendous progress mainly results from the application of electron direct detection device cameras(DDD) to record images. This review introduces the principle and advantages of DDD first, and then explains how this technique helps to conquer the difficulties encountered in the filed in combination with our cryo-EM experience. Some prospects of using DDD to get more fantastic results are also included.