Cryo-Electron Microscopy
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Our goal is to reveal novel macromolecular interactions, up to the level of whole cells, by means of cryo-electron tomography and advanced pattern recognition algorithms. Cryo-electron tomography is the only technique that can obtain molecular resolution images of intact cells in a quasi-native state. |
FIB-SEM and Electron Tomography
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In addition, we are using classical biological room temperature electron micoscopy. Ultrastructural preservation is assured in these preparations by prior high pressure freezing. We use this method to image larger volumina, as e.g. tissues and whole model organisms (currently C. elegans and Drosophila embryos) by focussed ion beam scanning electron microscopy and (after ultramicrotomy) by room temperature tomography. |
Teaching
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We offer special lectures and courses in Electron Microscopy and Image Processing for physic, biophysic, biochemistry, chemistry and biology students. Our aim is to teach you the main principles of both methods and give you an understanding for their impact in modern Life Sciences. |
Contact
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Frangakis Group Cluster of Excellence Macromolecular Complexes Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt Institute of Biophysics Max-von-Laue-Str. 15 D-60438 Frankfurt am Main Germany. |
FCEM and Electron Microscopy access for the public
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The primary aim of the FCEM is to promote the application of electron microscopy in all research disciplines of the Goethe University. Past and current users of the Goethe University have been from the departments of Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology, Neuroscience, Medicine, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, and Physics. FCEM has been also utilized by external institutions such as the University of Zurich, Max-Planck-Institute for Biophysical Chemistry and others, as well as from non-academic users. |
Recent publications
Cryo-electron tomography analyses of terminal organelle mutants suggest the motility mechanism opf Mycoplasma genitalium. Mol Microbiol. 2018 Feb22
DOI: 10.1111/mmi13938
Meet the Group
The group is led by Prof. Dr. Achilleas Frangakis and has currently 12 members.
Selected Publications
- Structure of RNA polymerase I transcribing ribosomal DNA genes.
- Quantitative analysis of cytoskeletal reorganization during epithelial tissue sealing by large-volume electron tomography.
- Three-dimensional CTF correction improves the resolution of electron tomograms.
- Correlative light- and electron microscopy with chemical tags.