HUMIDITY CONTROL
Preventing condensation for world-leading
electron cryo-microscopy A case study from Munters.
F
or years, Munters has supplied and maintained dehumidifiers used for critical research at Medical Research
Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology (MRC LMB).
The MRC LMB is a world-class laboratory that is tackling major problems in human health and disease. Over the years, they have attracted 12 nobel prizes, as well as dozens of scientific awards and honours in molecular biology.
Within the MRC LMB lies several cryo-
laboratories, along with a world leading, electron cryo-microscope – a multi-million pound investment that is used for carrying out critical research into human health and disease.
26 March 2023 •
www.acr-news.com
For more than a decade, Munters has supplied and maintained dehumidifiers that are essential for the effective operation of this microscope.
Condensation control The electron cryo-microscope is an incredible invention. Research specimens are submerged into liquid ethane at -193°C. This process freezes them so quickly that it creates a glass, or water glass, which enhances the clarity of the molecules within the specimens.
“In this instance, water is both the friend and the enemy,” says Dr Chris Russo, MRC LMB group leader. “When submerging research samples into the
ethane at liquid nitrogen temperatures, it is absolutely critical that other moisture is minimised, otherwise the sample could be ruined.” It’s for this reason that dehumidification is so crucial. “Without dehumidification, even the slightest amount of excess moisture will cause ice to build on the specimens. If the resolution is poor, we won’t get the image and won’t solve what we need to,” Mr Russo says.
The microscope itself is also susceptible to moisture damage. Strong electrodes and iron magnets can corrode and decay if relative humidity is not effectively controlled within the cryo-laboratories.
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