ABSTRACT
Electron microscopy techniques have played a significant role in the characterization of α(1,4)-linked, α(1,6)-branched glucan samples, especially native particles such as those of starch or glycogen for visualizing their morphological and ultrastructural details at different length scales. The present chapter focuses on technical aspects of sample preparation and observation of various types of native and recrystallized α-glucan particles, by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The constraints specific to each imaging technique are described, illustrated by several examples and emphasizing the importance of controlling the radiation dose and the sample hydration to observe such sensitive specimens. Recent results from the literature are reviewed and we give practical recommendations to record well-resolved images of these glucan particles with meaningful structural details.
