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Crystallography

Summary of Crystallography Services

• Initial Screening
• Additional Screens
• Optimization Trials
• Collecting X-ray data (using either local X-ray equipment or at a synchrotron beamline)
• Processing X-ray and solving structure
• Selenomethionine derivatives (sometimes needed to get phase information)

Each project is unique, but below is a general outline of the process for crystallization and structure determination through the SBC:

1 — Contact the SBC to discuss the feasibility of your project. If project is suitable for crystallization trials, proceed as below.

2 — Client completes Sample Information Form and an Authorization for Services and Payment Form.

3 — Client provides SBC with ~10 mg of pure protein sample, at a concentration of ~10 mg/ml, in low ionic strength buffer near neutral pH, for initial screens.

4 — SBC personnel will screen sample for crystallization, unless client prefers to be trained to do this. If crystals are produced, SBC staff will collect information on unit cell and resolution of diffraction.

5 — If your protein is a candidate for structure determination, client may approach Dr. Lesa Beamer, Dr. Jack Tanner or Dr. Stefan Sarafianos to discuss the possibility of a formal collaboration for structure solution by crystallography. These collaborations are at the discretion of the above faculty, and would be expected to lead to joint publications and grant funding.

If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Ritcha Chaudhary by email at chaudharyr@missouri.edu or at 573-884-1281.

Additional Resources:

• Tips on crystallizing proteins
• X-Ray Instrument Calendar  (Authorized Users Only)