Center for Electron Microscopy and Analysis - CEMAS

A recent study from The Ohio State University is the first to describe how a specific protein orchestrates the step-by-step assembly of the molecular complex that performs the regulatory job.

By leveraging the advanced cryo-EM microscopy tools and expertise available through CEMAS, researchers visualized the assembly of a key molecular complex involved in gene regulation, revealing details that had long remained hidden within the cell. This work brings new clarity to one of biology’s enduring “black boxes,” revealing how cells precisely control gene activation at the molecular level.

Discoveries like this reflect CEMAS's role in the research ecosystem by providing access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and supporting collaborations that turn complex data into meaningful insights.

Unsealing cells’ ‘black box’ strategy to regulate gene activation While scientists have known for over two decades that all cells use a strategy called RNA interference to regulate gene expression, a new study is the first to describe how a specific protein manages the step-by-step process of assembling the molecular complex that performs the regulatory job. Amon...

Ohio State researchers have taken some of the most detailed snapshots to date of a DNA repair protein crucial to cancers caused by BRCA mutations. Leveraging state-of-the-art cryo-electron microscopy at CEMAS, they uncovered the mechanism by which this protein recognizes and repairs damaged DNA.

By clarifying how this repair pathway works, the research provides a foundation for designing drugs that selectively block DNA repair in BRCA‑mutated cancer cells, potentially leading to more targeted and effective cancer therapies.

These findings were made possible by cutting-edge cryo-EM capabilities at CEMAS, which enable scientists to visualize molecular machines at near‑atomic resolution.

Best snapshots yet of DNA repair protein relevant to BRCA mutations Scientists have captured the most detailed structural images to date of a specific type of protein’s DNA repair process, a finding that could reveal ways to inhibit the effects of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations that heighten the risk for breast, ovarian and other cancers. Previous research has shown t...

CEMAS recently welcomed Krishna Chinthalapudi, Associate Professor of Physiology and Cell Biology, as Associate Director of Biological Sciences!

This new strategic role supports the growing demand for advanced biological imaging and cryo‑EM, strengthening collaboration across engineering, medicine and life sciences. Dr. Chinthalapudi will help guide research priorities, strategic planning, major instrumentation and grant initiatives.

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CEMAS appoints Associate Director of Biological Sciences Professor Krishna Chinthalapudi steps into strategic advisory role