A deliberate approach to screening for initial crystallization conditions of biological macromolecules

J Struct Biol. 2003 Apr;142(1):170-9. doi: 10.1016/s1047-8477(03)00048-0.

Abstract

A method to rationally predict crystallization conditions for a previously uncrystallized macromolecule has not yet been developed. One way around this problem is to determine initial crystallization conditions by casting a wide net, surveying a large number of chemical and physical conditions to locate crystallization leads. A facility that executes the rapid survey of crystallization lead conditions is described in detail. Results and guidelines for the initial screening of crystallization conditions, applicable to both manual and robotic setups, are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Automation
  • Biopolymers / chemistry*
  • Biopolymers / isolation & purification
  • Computers
  • Crystallization / instrumentation
  • Crystallization / methods*
  • Oils
  • Software

Substances

  • Biopolymers
  • Oils