Three-dimensional SEM, TEM, and STEM for analysis of large-scale biological systems

A major aim in structural cell biology is to analyze intact cells in three dimensions, visualize subcellular structures, and even localize proteins at the best possible resolution in three dimensions. Though recently developed electron microscopy tools such as electron tomography, or three-dimensional (3D) scanning electron microscopy, offer great resolution in three dimensions, the challenge is that, the better the resolution, usually the smaller the volume under investigation. Several different approaches to overcome this challenge were presented at the Microscopy Conference in Vienna in 2021. These tools include array tomography, batch tomography, or scanning transmission electron tomography, all of which can nowadays be extended toward correlative light and electron tomography, with greatly increased 3D information. Here, we review these tools, describe the underlying procedures, and discuss their advantages and limits.

Automated summary

A major aim in structural cell biology is to analyze intact cells in three dimensions, visualize subcellular structures, and even localize proteins at the best possible resolution in three dimensions. Recently developed electron microscopy tools offer great resolution in three dimensions, but the challenge is to investigate smaller volumes. Different approaches, including array tomography, batch tomography, and scanning transmission electron tomography, were presented at the Microscopy Conference in Vienna in 2021 to overcome this challenge and provide increased 3D information.