Optimization of image collection for cellular electron microscopy

Image collection is a key aspect of all kinds of electron microscopy (EM), including microscopy of the cell. Optimal use of existing detectors and continuing improvements to detector technology are crucial to further advancements in cellular EM. In order to pursue optimization of use and development of detectors, it is critical to understand central performance limitations and trade-offs. Spectral signal-to-noise ratio (SSNR) is presented as a means to quantify image quality and detective quantum efficiency (DQE) as a means to quantify detector performance relative to the generation of good SSNR. These quantities are used to describe a number of areas of cellular EM, and various improvements both to technique and to detector technology are described. Further work is needed to understand the SSNR implications of postacquisition processing in order to better understand the correct trade-offs to make in instrumentation development. Expected developments could help to bridge the resolution gap between cellular and molecular structural biology.