Home›Analytical Chem›Use of a Robot for High-throughput Crystallization of Membrane Proteins in Lipidic Mesophases
Analytical ChemJoVE (Open Access)Citable · DOI
Use of a Robot for High-throughput Crystallization of Membrane Proteins in Lipidic Mesophases
DOI: 10.3791/4000-v
What you'll learn
✓Operate robotic systems for high-throughput membrane protein crystallization
✓Prepare crystallization plates and handle lipidic mesophase samples
✓Compare three automated platforms for in meso crystallography
Protocol
Herein is described a robotic approach to high-throughput crystallization of membrane proteins in lipidic mesophases for use in structure determination using macromolecular X-ray crystallography. Three robots capable of handling the viscous and sticky protein-laden mesophase integral to the method are introduced.
Difficulty
advanced
Total time
~2-4 hours per plate (excluding crystal growth/incubation time)
Steps
1
Prepare crystallization plate for mesophase delivery
Set up crystallization plates with appropriate well geometry and establish baseline conditions for mesophase-based crystallization experiments. This foundational step ensures proper sample delivery and consistent results.
▶ 01:35
2
Operate In Meso Robot for sample dispensing
Use the In Meso Robot to automatically dispense protein-laden lipidic mesophase into crystallization wells. This platform handles viscous mesophase materials with precision for high-throughput screening.
▶ 03:54
3
Prime syringe and verify mesophase loading
Prepare the robot syringe by priming with mesophase material to ensure consistent delivery rates and eliminate air bubbles prior to crystallization runs.
▶ 08:48
4
Execute automated crystallization protocol
Run the programmed robotic protocol to dispense samples across multiple wells with controlled volumes and timing. Monitor system performance throughout the run.
▶ 09:27
5
Seal crystallization plate for incubation
Apply appropriate sealing methods to the crystallization plate to prevent evaporation and contamination during crystal growth incubation periods.
▶ 11:14
6
Employ Mosquito LCP robot for screening
Operate the Mosquito LCP platform as an alternative high-throughput robotic system for lipidic cubic phase crystallization with comparable automation and throughput.
▶ 13:13
7
Utilize Gryphon LCP robot for crystallization
Use the Gryphon LCP platform, a third robotic option, for automated membrane protein crystallization in lipidic mesophases with distinct operational features.
▶ 18:00
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