Role of transmission electron microscopy in the study of gastroenteritis viruses

Abstract

The technique of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was crucial in the discovery of the major viral causes of gastroenteritis in humans (norovirus, rotavirus, astrovirus, sapovirus, adenovirus) and subsequently played a valuable role in the detection of these viruses. In the 21st century, TEM continues to play a role in the understanding of viral gastroenteritis but chiefly in a research role rather than in a diagnostic context.