STEM studies of biological structure

Abstract

The STEM can be used in one of three modes: 1) to image individual atoms; 2) to measure mass or molecular weight; 3) to collect electron energy loss spectra or x-ray fluorescence data. Heavy atom imaging is used to identify chemical groups in a molecule or macromolecules in an assembly. Specific labels have been developed for bases in nucleic acids. These permit localization of bound proteins on single strand nucleic acids. Pt (gly-L-met) Cl is a specific label for methionine residues of proteins as shown with the SLS aggregate of collagen. Lysine can be labeled as well if first methyl (methyl-thio-acetimidate) is coupled. This labeling procedure permits the localization of individual histones within a nucleosome. Mass determination can be used to answer crucial questions about biological assemblies. This is demonstrated by examples from muscle structure.