Femtosecond Laser-Induced Crystallization of Cytosine Monohydrate for Serial Nano Electron Diffraction Analysis

Abstract

Determining the atomic structure of materials and molecules is essential for understanding their properties and functions in both materials and life sciences. X-ray crystallography has long been the standard technique, but its reliance on large, well-ordered crystals presents challenges for certain materials, such as membrane proteins [1]. Microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) has proven effective for solving the structures of biomaterials and small molecules [2]. However, its reliance on continuous crystal rotation and high-energy electron exposure limits its applicability to beam-sensitive materials.