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Automation of sample mounting for macromolecular crystallography

2006; Wiley; Volume: 62; Issue: 10 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1107/s0907444906030587

1399-0047

F. Cipriani, Franck Felisaz, L. Launer, Jaykob Aksoy, Hugo Caserotto, S. Cusack, M. Dallery, F. di-Chiaro, Matias Guijarro, Julien Huet, Sine Larsen, Mario Lentini, Joanne McCarthy, Seán McSweeney, Raimond B. G. Ravelli, M. Renier, C. Taffut, Andrew Thompson, Gordon A. Leonard, Martin Walsh,

Protein Structure and Dynamics

A standard sample holder and vial for cryocooled macromolecular crystals has been defined for use with robotic sample changers. This SPINE standard sample holder is a modified version, with added features and specifications, of sample holders in common use. In particular, the SPINE standard meets the precision required for automatic sample exchange and includes a cap that is identified by a two-dimensional datamatrix code as well as an optional vial. At the ESRF, the sample holder standard is in use with the EMBL/ESRF/BM14 robotic sample changer (SC3) which is installed on eight beamlines. The SC3 can hold up to 50 crystals stored in five baskets. A datamatrix reader in the SC3 ensures safe management of the sample flow and facilitates fully automatic screening and characterization of samples. Tools for handling and transporting 50 samples in a dry shipping dewar have been developed. In addition to the SC3, the SPINE sample holder is currently compatible with a number of other robotic sample changers.