Magellon - an extensible platform for cryo-EM data visualization, management, and processing

Abstract

Single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has revolutionized structural biology by enabling high-resolution determination of macromolecular structures. However, the field faces challenges in data management, processing workflow integration, and software extensibility. We present Magellon, an innovative cryo-EM software platform that addresses these challenges through a modern microservices architecture. Magellon consists of an extensible backend with a web-based front end that we call Magellon Viewer. Together, these combine high-performance computing capabilities with an intuitive user interface, enabling researchers to efficiently process and analyze cryo-EM data. The platforms distinguishing features include a plugin-based architecture, distributed processing capabilities, comprehensive monitoring systems, and a novel approach to data organization and visualization. A key philosophy of the approach is that the Magellon backend provides a platform that uses robust industry-standard libraries to orchestrate computational tasks while offering users and developers flexibility in selecting the computational resources for performing calculations. Magellon represents a significant advancement in cryo-EM software infrastructure, offering flexibility, scalability, and extensibility while maintaining ease of use.