Protein Crystallization and Optimization Screening for Coronavirus Research
The necessary condition for successful X-ray crystallographic analysis is to obtain a single crystal of the target protein that meets the X-ray diffraction standard. The data are then collected by X-ray diffraction from a single crystal with an ordered pattern of atomic orientation. The assembly of atoms and molecules in the crystal can be deduced from the measurement of X-ray scattering. As a senior supplier in the field of structural biology contract research, Creative Biostructure provides protein crystallization and optimization screening services to assist in the research of coronavirus infection.
Brief Introduction to Coronavirus and SARS-CoV-2
The virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a novel coronavirus that has spread worldwide. Until now, there is no specific therapeutic drug or vaccine for this infectious disease, so it is significant to study the structure, function, and pathogenesis of the virus. 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro, also termed as the main protease, Mpro) is the first protein of the novel coronavirus whose structure has been determined. The scientists used X-ray crystallography technology to solve the crystal structure of the protein at a resolution of 1.75 Å. Coronavirus 3CLpro is essential for the proteolytic maturation of the virus and is an important potential drug target. The determination of the protein structure will advance the research and drug discovery of the novel coronavirus, a newly discovered human pathogen.
Protein Crystallization and Optimization Screening for Coronavirus Research
- Initial protein crystallization screening
Creative Biostructure utilizes high-throughput crystallization equipment and a variety of crystallization techniques, such as vapor diffusion crystallization, co-crystallization, and seeding, to initially screen the crystallization conditions of target proteins. The protein samples used for crystallization can be obtained from our customers or prepared from scratch through our crystal-grade protein expression and purification service.
- Crystal optimization screening
To obtain high-quality protein crystals suitable for X-ray diffraction studies, we will further optimize the crystallization conditions. The optimized conditions include but are not limited to buffer pH, salts, precipitants, additives, temperature, ligands, etc.
Creative Biostructure not only supports the crystallization of individual proteins, but our scientists also have extensive experience and expertise in the crystal structure analysis of protein biomolecular complexes and protein-ligand complexes. It is worth mentioning that our co-crystallization and soaking techniques contribute to the discovery of antiviral lead compounds.
Why Do You Choose Us?
- The most cost-effective protein crystallization strategy according to customer requirements
- Experienced crystallographers work closely with our customers
- Fast turnaround and reliable data
- Confidentiality of customer project information and experimental data
- Our customer service representatives are available 24 hours a day from Monday to Sunday
Contact us to discuss your project!
References
- Jin Z.; et al. Structure of Mpro from SARS-CoV-2 and discovery of its inhibitors. Nature. 2020: 1-5.
- Zhang L.; et al. Crystal structure of SARS-CoV-2 main protease provides a basis for design of improved α-ketoamide inhibitors. Science. 2020.
