FRISBI
The crystallization platform of the CBS offers access to robotized methods for crystallization of macromolecules (mainly proteins) using the vapour diffusion techniques.
Sample characterization is a prerequisite before crystallization. Unless it has already been performed, samples will be analyzed by native and SDS-PAGE, as well as dynamic light scattering and thermal shift assay.
Crystallization is first attempted using general screens from commercial sources as well as specific screens made from our own stock solutions.
- Crystallization screens are prepared/dispensed with a Tecan RSP100 robot (to be updated),
- Sitting drops -from 100nl to 500nl- are performed by a Cartesian Honeybee 8+1 robot.
- Plates are stored and automatically imaged at 20°C in a Formulatrix Rock Imager system. Images are accessible to users and can be scored via a web-interface.
Hanging drop plates are then available for manual screen refinement and crystal growth optimization.
Plates can also be stored at 4° and 18°C and inspected through a Leica stereo-microscope.
The CBS is now equipped with G-Rob robot (Nat-X-ray) for in situ X-ray diffraction screening in order to monitor crystal quality and nature (salt/protein).