Home Analytical Chem Use of a Robot for High-throughput Crystallization of Membrane Proteins in Lipidic Mesophases
Analytical Chem JoVE (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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