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Teaching Protein Crystallization by the Gel Acupuncture Method

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Juan Manuel García-Ruiz , Abel Moreno , F. Otálora , D. Rondón , C. Viedma and F. Zauscher

Laboratorio de Estudios Cristalográficos, Instituto Andaluz de Ciencias de la Tierra, CSIC-Universidad de Granada, Av. Fuentenueva s/n, 18002 Granada, Spain

J. Chem. Educ., 1998, 75 (4), p 442

DOI: 10.1021/ed075p442

Publication Date (Web): April 1, 1998

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

This paper provides a detailed description of a simple method to obtain large protein single crystals inside glass capillaries. The method is based upon the properties of gels, which are used to hold capillaries containing the protein solution, and also to act as the mass transport medium for the precipitating agent. Recipes for a set of selected experiments bringing a hands-on experience on the crystallization of different soluble proteins are supplied. These experiments are inexpensive and straightforward enough for teaching at the undergraduate level that large biological macromolecules that are the gate our structural studies and drug design can be crystallized. Using simple equations accounting for the solubility of proteins and for the nucleation process, the experimental results are explained to provide a rational approach to the problem. In addition, because of the nature of the crystallization method which is based on diffusion-reactions systems, the student is introduced to the meaning of self-organization.

Keywords (Audience):

Upper-Division Undergraduate

Keywords (Domain):

Laboratory Instruction

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives

Keywords (Subject):

Proteins / Peptides

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This article has been cited by 1 ACS Journal articles (1 most recent appear below).

Arcade Games for Teaching Crystal Growth
J. M. García-Ruiz
Journal of Chemical Education1999 76 (4), 499
- Arcade Games for Teaching Crystal Growth
  J. M. García-Ruiz
  Journal of Chemical Education1999 76 (4), 499
  Using the analogy of building a tessellate wall by a wall-maker and playing the arcade game called Tetris, students can grasp the fundamental idea of the crystal growth theory.
  Abstract | Hi-Res PDF | PDF w/ Links