Introducing Advanced Cryo FIB Lamella Milling Services for Cryo Electron Tomography

The Aquilos 2 represents the latest generation of advanced technology designed to prepare ultra-thin, electron-transparent lamellas for high-resolution cryo-electron tomography. This system allows precise control over the thickness of in-situ cryo-lamellas from cells on EM grids. Key features include: the integrated iFLM enables fluorescence-guided milling, eliminating unnecessary sample transfers among different systems, thus minimizing ice contamination while allowing accurate targeting of regions of interest. In addition, the AutoTEM function streamlines the process, enabling the production of multiple lamellas from pre-programmed locations, optimizing longer milling sessions for higher throughput.

Our Aquilos 2 cryo FIB system is housed at Sterling Hall of Medicine (333 Cedar Street) and is managed by the CCMI EM Core Facility. Regardless of your prior cryo FIB experience, we will conduct the initial milling run to ensure the parameters are optimized for your specific samples. For those interested in learning independent milling using this equipment we offer training alongside your project. However, please note that training is only available for active projects due to the high cost of consumables and limited staff resources.

To learn more or to start your cryo FIB milling project, please contact facility director Xinran Liu at xinran.liu@yale.edu.