A simplified method of bacteriophage preparation for transmission electron microscope

Abstract

Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria. Researchers use different methods to study the characteristics of bacteriophages. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) is considered the best method to analyze these characteristics. However, the quality of TEM micrographs is significantly influenced by the preparation methods used to prepare the bacteriophages sample. In this study, researchers compared two different methods for preparing the bacteriophage samples. In one method was used SM buffer, while in the other used deionized water. The results were analyzed by TEM and compared with each other. Additionally, the viability of bacteriophage in deionized water and SM buffer at 4°C was determined through plaque assay within 72 hours. TEM micrographs showed that the quality of bacteriophage sample prepared with deionized water is superior to those prepared with SM buffer. Furthermore, the titer of the bacteriophages did not show a significant reduction during 72 hours in both SM and deionized water. In conclusion, the results suggested that preparation method can significantly impact the quality of TEM micrographs. Using sterile deionized water for the preparation of bacteriophages is a simple way to improve the quality of TEM micrographs and it is advisable to send the samples to the laboratory within 72 hours.