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Choosing an AAV Characterization Worfklow

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NIS Team

September 19, 2025

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x min read

Example cryo-TEM images of full, partial, and empty AAV capsids (left) and plot chart (right)

What AAV workflow is right for you?

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) formulation projects can have unique challenges. Our new AAV cryo-TEM imaging services provide flexible workflows designed around your specific needs.

From high volume rapid cryo-TEM screening to in-depth imaging studies with automated analysis, we work with you to tailor studies to your requirements.

	Screening Study	Imaging Study
Overview	Rapid screening suitable for a quick look of many samples with quick turnaround time.	In-depth study with a quantitative assessment of your AAV formulation, including full/partial/empty ratio.
Turnaround Time	Under 1 week	~2-4 weeks, rush services available
Number of Images	5	<60
Sample Optimization	Not Included	Included
Deliverables	Methods report	Methods report plus table of quantitative results
Suitable for Analysis?	No	Yes

Quick Assessments for Faster Decision Making

Our AAV screening package provides a rapid assessment of multiple samples in order to provide a quick look at your formulations.

Why would you use the screening workflow?

lack and white image of adeno-associated virus taken with transmission electron microscopy

You have multiple samples to compare
You only need a few images to make decisions
You need answers fast without long queues & delays in scheduling

We will perform cryo-TEM screening on up to 12 AAV samples per submission.

Deliverables include a methods report and 5 images per sample that can be accessed in our client viewer portal. Turnaround time is within one week of sample submission for this service.

What if I need a more comprehensive look at my sample?

We offer a more rigorous in-depth analysis that can look at both qualitative and quantitative assessment of your formulations. Keep scrolling for the details.

More Information for Informed Decisions

Our new automated AAV analysis workflow reveals critical information about each formulation and includes automated capsid ratio analysis for detailed characterization.

Why would you use the analysis workflow?

lack and white image of adeno-associated virus taken with transmission electron microscopy and characterizing broken capsids free dna and aggregation

You need quantitative data on full/partial/empty capsid ratios in formulations
You want to visualize aggregation, broken capsids, free DNA and more
You’re looking for publication quality images

The AAV analysis workflow includes collection of sufficient images per sample to run under our automated capsid ratio analysis algorithm on at least 1,000 particles.

Deliverables include a detailed report of methods, with images and capsid ratio data including a table & plots, as well as access to all images in our client viewer portal. The turnaround time is under four weeks from sample submission.

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Depending on your project needs, we can customize your cryo-TEM imaging study to include qualitative assessments, particle size distribution, morphology analysis, or high-resolution 3D structure reconstruction.

Example of 3D structure reconstruction from cryo-TEM imaging (left) to 2D classification (middle) and final high resolution structure (right)

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To see an example report, email us at nischr@nanoimagingservices.com.

What if I need to submit this data for IND or regulatory filings?

If you’re submitting data for regulatory filings, we can run your project under GxP compliant workflows and develop validated methods tailored to your specific project goals. Data generated under our GxP workflows are reliable, reproducible, and robust.

What’s Next?

Ready to find the right AAV workflow for your project? Contact us or schedule a consultation with our experts. We'll discuss your goals and guide you to the most suitable workflow option.