We are the newly established Cryogenic Electron Microscopy (cryo-EM) Core Facility at the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry (IOCB) in Prague. Our specialized cryo-EM team offers a comprehensive range of services, from sample preparation and characterization data collection, and single particle analysis (SPA) conducted on High-Performance Computing (HPC) systems. In close cooperation with other groups, we can ensure atomic-model building service for the structures we analyze and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.
Cryo-EM allows visualization of bound small-molecule ligands in the macromolecules at high resolution. These new structures provide beneficial insights into the molecular mechanisms of complex biochemical processes and a profound impact on drug discovery, defining the binding modes and mechanisms of action.
Our proficiency extends beyond cryo-EM, encompassing techniques at ambient temperatures and 3D electron diffraction. The Cryo-EM group is equipped with an inhouse screening microscope and collaborates with CEITEC in Brno to access highresolution instrumentation. Dana analysis is performed in collaboration with a highperformance computing (HPC) facility. The cluster consists of ~250 CPU nodes and ~40 GPU nodes.
Our facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation (300kV Krios G4 and 200kV Glacios) for single particle analysis and 3D electron diffraction. Our goal is to establish a cutting-edge cryo-EM infrastructure that will meet the needs of IOCB users and potential external collaborators.