Micro-ED Structural Analysis for Small-Molecule Compounds

        Micro-ED structural analysis harnesses microcrystal electron diffraction acquired via cryogenic transmission electron microscopy to solve three-dimensional crystal structures.
        By replacing conventional X-rays with high-energy electrons, the method boosts structural determination efficiency by an order of magnitude while doubling success rates. Sub-micrometer crystals (>0.1 μm) are sufficient to produce high-resolution diffraction data, lowering demands on sample morphology, purity, and size.
        Traditional crystallography relies on X-ray diffraction, which requires large crystals because X-rays interact weakly with matter. Micro-ED leverages the stronger interaction between electrons and matter, enabling reliable data collection from nanocrystals. In practice, microcrystal electron diffraction can reduce the barrier for characterization by two orders of magnitude, dramatically shortening the confirmation cycle for small-molecule structures.
        To date we have completed Micro-ED structural studies for more than 150 small molecules, establishing proprietary protocols for cryogenic sample preparation, TEM acquisition, and data processing. We welcome collaborations with researchers advancing natural products and small-molecule innovation.