Improving the success rate of protein crystallization by random microseed matrix screening

J Vis Exp. 2013 Aug 31:(78):50548. doi: 10.3791/50548.

Abstract

Random microseed matrix screening (rMMS) is a protein crystallization technique in which seed crystals are added to random screens. By increasing the likelihood that crystals will grow in the metastable zone of a protein's phase diagram, extra crystallization leads are often obtained, the quality of crystals produced may be increased, and a good supply of crystals for data collection and soaking experiments is provided. Here we describe a general method for rMMS that may be applied to either sitting drop or hanging drop vapor diffusion experiments, established either by hand or using liquid handling robotics, in 96-well or 24-well tray format.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Video-Audio Media

MeSH terms

  • Crystallization / instrumentation
  • Crystallization / methods*
  • Diffusion
  • Gases / chemistry
  • Proteins / chemistry*
  • Robotics / methods

Substances

  • Gases
  • Proteins