Method for screening crystallization conditions in solution crystal growth
AssigneeThe UAB Research Foundation
InventorLawrence James DeLucas
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Abstract
A method of screening protein crystal growth conditions with picogram to microgram amounts of protein in picoliter or nanoliter volumes is provided. A preferred method comprises a microarray with a plurality of micro-chambers in the microarray. A protein solution is placed into the micro-chambers by an automated dispensing mechanism. The protein crystal growth conditions of each of the micro-chambers is adjusted so that the protein crystal growth conditions in at least two of the micro-chambers differs. Crystallization of the protein solution in the micro-chambers is effected. Protein crystal growth in the micro-chambers is then observed.
Claims38
A method of screening protein crystal growth conditions employing picogram, nanogram or to microgram amounts of protein comprising the steps of:
- providing a microarray with a plurality of wells in said microarray;
- accurately dispensing a volume of from about 0.001 nl to about 250 nl of a protein solution into said wells;
- controlling the protein crystal growth conditions of each of said wells so that the protein crystal growth conditions in at least two of said micro-chambers differs;
- and
- observing protein crystal growth or protein precipitation in said wells.
A method of screening protein crystal growth conditions employing picogram to microgram amounts of protein comprising the steps of:
- accurately dispensing a volume from about 0.001 nl to about 250 nl of a protein solution onto a platform;
- controlling the protein crystal growth condition of the sample;
- and
- observing a protein precipitate or protein crystals in the sample.
A microarray for screening protein crystal growth at nanogram or picogram protein amounts comprising:
- a plurality of wells wherein said wells are adapted for holding volumes of protein solution from about 0.001 nl to about 250 nl;
- and further wherein said well comprises a material that is minimally water absorbing;
- and
- an optically clear path from said wells.
A microarray for screening protein crystal growth at nanogram or picogram protein amounts comprising a plurality of wells wherein said wells are adapted for holding volumes of protein solution from about 0.001 nl to about 250 nl.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.