Dr. Carlos Oscar Sorzano has dedicated over 25 years to advancing image processing methods for Cryo-Electron Microscopy (CryoEM) at the Biocomputing Unit. His work has been instrumental in the development of cutting-edge tools that address the challenges of CryoEM data analysis. The Biocomputing Unit is the birthplace of two major software projects: Scipion, a robust workflow engine that integrates multiple image processing packages into a streamlined platform, and Xmipp, a powerful scientific computing package tailored specifically for the unique demands of CryoEM, enabling researchers worldwide to enhance the quality of structural reconstructions and improve biological interpretations. These tools have become essential components in CryoEM workflows, driving innovation in structural biology research.
In this 3-hour practice session, we will explore the fundamental steps of Single Particle Analysis (SPA) using Cryo-Electron Microscopy (CryoEM). Participants will be introduced to the core concepts and practical workflow of SPA, focusing on data preprocessing, particle picking, 2D classification, initial 3D reconstruction, and 3D refinement. Using the Scipion workflow engine, which integrates multiple image processing tools, and the Xmipp package, designed specifically for CryoEM, we will guide participants through setting up and running these processes on real data. By the end of the session, participants will have a solid understanding of the basic steps in SPA and hands-on experience with tools that are critical for reconstructing macromolecular structures.