Suspended sample growth device for imaging applications
AssigneeThe Regents of the University of California
InventorsTamir Gonen, Cody Gillman
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Abstract
An apparatus and associated systems and methods for suspended drop crystallization for imaging applications. Unlike more traditional methods, suspended drop crystallization involves disposition of a sample directly on an electron microscopy grid without any additional support layers. The grid is then suspended within an incubation pod that allows for vapor diffusion to occur from both sides of the suspended drop. Windows within the incubation pod allow for monitoring of crystal growth. Once crystals have formed, the grid can be removed and utilized for crystallography data acquisition.
Claims20
An apparatus for suspended crystal or sample growth, comprising:
- a screw cap piece for holding a grid, the screw cap piece comprising a first bridge portion and an opposing second bridge portion, wherein the grid is dimensioned to be secured between the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion such that an outer surface of the grid contacts the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion;
- a bottom well screw piece comprising a well that is formed within the bottom well screw;
- and
- a joiner piece comprising threads for securing the screw cap piece and the bottom well screw to the joiner.
A method for suspended drop crystal or sample growth, comprising:
- securing a grid between a first bridge portion and a second bridge portion of a screw cap piece such that an outer surface of the grid contacts the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion;
- disposing a suspended sample onto the grid;
- screening crystal growth on the grid;
- vitrifying the suspended sample on the grid;
- and
- generating data that is indicative of a structure of the suspended sample.
A system for sample growth, comprising:
- a first rack comprising a first plurality of receptacles;
- and
- a second rack comprising a second plurality of receptacles, wherein the second rack is connectable to the first rack to form an array comprising the first plurality of receptacles and the second plurality of receptacles, and wherein the second rack is removable from the first rack;
- wherein each of the first plurality of receptacles and the second plurality of receptacles are dimensioned to receive and hold an apparatus containing a sample.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.