Work

Automated gradient equilibration of macromolecular crystals to new solution conditions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We describe a device and a method for changing the ambient solution of a macromolecular crystal. The approach is gentle, automated, inexpensive and open source. Examples are given of the equilibration of three different crystals to new solutions with exchange times ranging from 5 to 180 min. In each case direct transfer of the crystal to the new solution causes cracking, which is eliminated with gradient equilibration using the described device. Crystals equilibrated with the device produce high-quality diffraction that yields refined structures comparable to those determined previously. The device offers a more systematic and labor-saving workflow than current practice both for performing diffraction analysis of macromolecular crystals and for investigating the response of macromolecular crystals to changes in solution composition.

Source: Acta Crystallographica Section F Structural Biology Communications

DOI: 10.1107/s2053230x25008398

Authors: Douglas H. Juers, Jack Quire, Sean Stothers

Institution: Whitman College

Language: English

Topic: Enzyme Structure and Function

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,520

Funders: Whitman College, National Institute of General Medical Sciences