Iterative screen optimization maximizes the efficiency of macromolecular crystallization

Advances in X-ray crystallography have streamlined the process of determining high-resolution three-dimensional macromolecular structures. However, a rate-limiting step in this process continues to be the generation of crystals that are of sufficient size and quality for subsequent diffraction experiments. Here, iterative screen optimization (ISO), a highly automated process in which the precipitant concentrations of each condition in a crystallization screen are modified based on the results of a prior crystallization experiment, is described. After designing a novel high-throughput crystallization screen to take full advantage of this method, the value of ISO is demonstrated by using it to successfully crystallize a panel of six diverse proteins. The results suggest that ISO is an effective method to obtain macromolecular crystals, particularly for proteins that crystallize under a narrow range of precipitant concentrations.

Source: Acta Crystallographica Section F - January 24, 2019 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Jones, H.G. Wrapp, D. Gilman, M.S.A. Battles, M.B. Wang, N. Sacerdote, S. Chuang, G.-Y. Kwong, P.D. McLellan, J.S. Tags: automated liquid handling crystallization screening macromolecular crystallography Sweet16 research communications Source Type: research