1
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Lin G, Barnes CO, Weiss S, Dutagaci B, Qiu C, Feig M, Song J, Lyubimov A, Cohen AE, Kaplan CD, Calero G. Structural basis of transcription: RNA polymerase II substrate binding and metal coordination using a free-electron laser. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2318527121. [PMID: 39190355 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2318527121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Catalysis and translocation of multisubunit DNA-directed RNA polymerases underlie all cellular mRNA synthesis. RNA polymerase II (Pol II) synthesizes eukaryotic pre-mRNAs from a DNA template strand buried in its active site. Structural details of catalysis at near-atomic resolution and precise arrangement of key active site components have been elusive. Here, we present the free-electron laser (FEL) structures of a matched ATP-bound Pol II and the hyperactive Rpb1 T834P bridge helix (BH) mutant at the highest resolution to date. The radiation-damage-free FEL structures reveal the full active site interaction network, including the trigger loop (TL) in the closed conformation, bonafide occupancy of both site A and B Mg2+, and, more importantly, a putative third (site C) Mg2+ analogous to that described for some DNA polymerases but not observed previously for cellular RNA polymerases. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the structures indicate that the third Mg2+ is coordinated and stabilized at its observed position. TL residues provide half of the substrate binding pocket while multiple TL/BH interactions induce conformational changes that could allow translocation upon substrate hydrolysis. Consistent with TL/BH communication, a FEL structure and MD simulations of the T834P mutant reveal rearrangement of some active site interactions supporting potential plasticity in active site function and long-distance effects on both the width of the central channel and TL conformation, likely underlying its increased elongation rate at the expense of fidelity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowu Lin
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
| | - Christopher O Barnes
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125
| | - Simon Weiss
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
| | - Bercem Dutagaci
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824
| | - Chenxi Qiu
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Michael Feig
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824
| | - Jihnu Song
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, Menlo Park, CA 94025
| | - Artem Lyubimov
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, Menlo Park, CA 94025
| | - Aina E Cohen
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, Menlo Park, CA 94025
| | - Craig D Kaplan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260
| | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
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2
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Acehan D, Spoth KA, Budziszewski GR, Snell ME, Campomizzi CS, Lynch ML, Bowman SE. Reaching the potential of electron diffraction. CELL REPORTS. PHYSICAL SCIENCE 2024; 5:102007. [PMID: 39055735 PMCID: PMC11271257 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrp.2024.102007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) is an emerging structural technique in which submicron crystals are used to generate diffraction data for structural studies. Structures allow for the study of molecular-level architecture and drive hypotheses about modes of action, mechanisms, dynamics, and interactions with other molecules. Combining cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) instrumentation with crystallographic techniques, MicroED has led to three-dimensional structural models of small molecules, peptides, and proteins and has generated tremendous interest due to its ability to use vanishingly small crystals. In this perspective, we describe the current state of the field for MicroED methodologies, including making and detecting crystals of the appropriate size for the technique, as well as ways to best handle and characterize these crystals. Our perspective provides insight into ways to unlock the full range of potential for MicroED to access previously intractable samples and describes areas of future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devrim Acehan
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
- University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, Department of Structural Biology, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
- University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Miranda L. Lynch
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
- University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, Department of Structural Biology, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Sarah E.J. Bowman
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
- University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, Department of Structural Biology, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
- University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, Department of Biochemistry, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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3
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Lin G, Barnes CO, Weiss S, Dutagaci B, Qiu C, Feig M, Song J, Lyubimov A, Cohen AE, Kaplan CD, Calero G. Structural basis of transcription: RNA Polymerase II substrate binding and metal coordination at 3.0 Å using a free-electron laser. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.22.559052. [PMID: 37790421 PMCID: PMC10543002 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.22.559052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Catalysis and translocation of multi-subunit DNA-directed RNA polymerases underlie all cellular mRNA synthesis. RNA polymerase II (Pol II) synthesizes eukaryotic pre-mRNAs from a DNA template strand buried in its active site. Structural details of catalysis at near atomic resolution and precise arrangement of key active site components have been elusive. Here we present the free electron laser (FEL) structure of a matched ATP-bound Pol II, revealing the full active site interaction network at the highest resolution to date, including the trigger loop (TL) in the closed conformation, bonafide occupancy of both site A and B Mg2+, and a putative third (site C) Mg2+ analogous to that described for some DNA polymerases but not observed previously for cellular RNA polymerases. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the structure indicate that the third Mg2+ is coordinated and stabilized at its observed position. TL residues provide half of the substrate binding pocket while multiple TL/bridge helix (BH) interactions induce conformational changes that could propel translocation upon substrate hydrolysis. Consistent with TL/BH communication, a FEL structure and MD simulations of the hyperactive Rpb1 T834P bridge helix mutant reveals rearrangement of some active site interactions supporting potential plasticity in active site function and long-distance effects on both the width of the central channel and TL conformation, likely underlying its increased elongation rate at the expense of fidelity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowu Lin
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh PA 15261 USA
| | - Christopher O Barnes
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA 91125 USA
| | - Simon Weiss
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh PA 15261 USA
| | - Bercem Dutagaci
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing MI 48824 USA
| | - Chenxi Qiu
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA 02115 USA
| | - Michael Feig
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing MI 48824 USA
| | - Jihnu Song
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Artem Lyubimov
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Aina E Cohen
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Craig D Kaplan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh PA 15260 USA
| | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh PA 15261 USA
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4
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Liu WY, Hsieh YS, Ko HH, Wu YT. Formulation Approaches to Crystalline Status Modification for Carotenoids: Impacts on Dissolution, Stability, Bioavailability, and Bioactivities. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020485. [PMID: 36839810 PMCID: PMC9965060 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Carotenoids, including carotenes and xanthophylls, have been identified as bioactive ingredients in foods and are considered to possess health-promoting effects. From a biopharmaceutical perspective, several physicochemical characteristics, such as scanty water solubility, restricted dissolution, and susceptibility to oxidation may influence their oral bioavailability and eventually, their effectiveness. In this review, we have summarized various formulation approaches that deal with the modification of crystalline status for carotenoids, which may improve their physicochemical properties, oral absorption, and biological effects. The mechanisms involving crystalline alteration and the typical methods for examining crystalline states in the pharmaceutical field have been included, and representative formulation approaches are introduced to unriddle the mechanisms and effects more clearly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Yi Liu
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Shan Hsieh
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Horng-Huey Ko
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Fragrance and Cosmetic Science, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Drug Development and Value Creation Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (H.-H.K.); (Y.-T.W.); Tel.: +886-7-3121101 (ext. 2643) (H.-H.K.); +886-7-3121101 (ext. 2254) (Y.-T.W.)
| | - Yu-Tse Wu
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (H.-H.K.); (Y.-T.W.); Tel.: +886-7-3121101 (ext. 2643) (H.-H.K.); +886-7-3121101 (ext. 2254) (Y.-T.W.)
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5
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Mehrabi P, Schulz EC. Sample Preparation for Time-Resolved Serial Crystallography: Practical Considerations. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2652:361-379. [PMID: 37093487 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3147-8_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Time-resolved serial crystallography is an emerging method to elucidate the structure-function relationship of biomolecular systems at up to atomic resolution. However, to make this demanding method a success, a number of experimental requirements have to be met. In this chapter, we summarize general guidelines and protocols towards performing time-resolved crystallography experiments, with a particular emphasis on sample requirements and preparation but also a brief excursion into reaction initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedram Mehrabi
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute for Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Eike C Schulz
- Max Planck Institute for Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Hamburg, Germany.
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.
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6
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Determination of Conformational and Functional Stability of Potential Plague Vaccine Candidate in Formulation. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 11:vaccines11010027. [PMID: 36679872 PMCID: PMC9865242 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Generally, protein-based vaccines are available in liquid form and are highly susceptible to instability under elevated temperature changes including freezing conditions. There is a need to create a convenient formulation of protein/peptides that can be stored at ambient conditions without loss of activity or production of adverse effects. The efficiency of naturally occurring biocompatible polymer dextran in improving the shelf-life and biological activity of a highly thermally unstable plague vaccine candidate protein called Low Calcium Response V antigen (LcrV), which can be stored at room temperature (30 ± 2 °C), has been evaluated. To determine the preferential interactions with molecular-level insight into solvent-protein interactions, analytical techniques such asspectroscopy, particle size distribution, gel electrophoresis, microscopy, and thermal analysis have been performed along with the evaluation of humoral immune response, invivo. The analytical methods demonstrate the structural stability of the LcrV protein by expressing its interaction with the excipients in the formulation. The invivo studies elicited the biological activity of the formulated antigen with a significantly higher humoral immune response (p-value = 0.047) when compared to the native, adjuvanted antigen. We propose dextran as a potential biopolymer with its co-excipient sodium chloride (NaCl) to provide protein compactness, i.e., prevent protein unfolding by molecular crowding or masking mechanism using preferential hydrophobic interaction for up to three weeks at room temperature (30 ± 2 °C).
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7
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Clabbers MTB, Shiriaeva A, Gonen T. MicroED: conception, practice and future opportunities. IUCRJ 2022; 9:169-179. [PMID: 35371502 PMCID: PMC8895021 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252521013063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This article documents a keynote seminar presented at the IUCr Congress in Prague, 2021. The cryo-EM method microcrystal electron diffraction is described and put in the context of macromolecular electron crystallography from its origins in 2D crystals of membrane proteins to today's application to 3D crystals a millionth the size of that needed for X-ray crystallography. Milestones in method development and applications are described with an outlook to the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max T. B. Clabbers
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Anna Shiriaeva
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Tamir Gonen
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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8
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Li M, Reichert P, Narasimhan C, Sorman B, Xu W, Cote A, Su Y. Investigating Crystalline Protein Suspension Formulations of Pembrolizumab from MAS NMR Spectroscopy. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:936-952. [PMID: 35107019 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Developing biological formulations to maintain the chemical and structural integrity of therapeutic antibodies remains a significant challenge. Monoclonal antibody (mAb) crystalline suspension formulation is a promising alternative for high concentration subcutaneous drug delivery. It demonstrates many merits compared to the solution formulation to reach a high concentration at the reduced viscosity and enhanced stability. One main challenge in drug development is the lack of high-resolution characterization of the crystallinity and stability of mAb microcrystals in the native formulations. Conventional analytical techniques often cannot evaluate structural details of mAb microcrystals in the native suspension due to the presence of visible particles, relatively small crystal size, high protein concentration, and multicomponent nature of a liquid formulation. This study demonstrates the first high-resolution characterization of mAb microcrystalline suspension using magic angle spinning (MAS) NMR spectroscopy. Crystalline suspension formulation of pembrolizumab (Keytruda, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ 07033, U.S.) is utilized as a model system. Remarkably narrow 13C spectral linewidth of approximately 29 Hz suggests a high order of crystallinity and conformational homogeneity of pembrolizumab crystals. The impact of thermal stress and dehydration on the structure, dynamics, and stability of these mAb crystals in the formulation environment is evaluated. Moreover, isotopic labeling and heteronuclear 13C and 15N spectroscopies have been utilized to identify the binding of caffeine in the pembrolizumab crystal lattice, providing molecular insights into the cocrystallization of the protein and ligand. Our study provides valuable structural details for facilitating the design of crystalline suspension formulation of Keytruda and demonstrates the high potential of MAS NMR as an advanced tool for biophysical characterization of biological therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Li
- Analytical Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Paul Reichert
- Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | | | - Bradley Sorman
- Analytical Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Wei Xu
- Analytical Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Aaron Cote
- Biologics Process Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Yongchao Su
- Analytical Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
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9
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Microcrystal electron diffraction in macromolecular and pharmaceutical structure determination. DRUG DISCOVERY TODAY. TECHNOLOGIES 2021; 37:93-105. [PMID: 34895659 DOI: 10.1016/j.ddtec.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) has recently shown to be a promising technique for structure determination in structural biology and pharmaceutical chemistry. Here, we discuss the unique properties of electrons and motivate its use for diffraction experiments. We review the latest developments in MicroED, and illustrate its applications in macromolecular crystallography, fragment screening and structure guided drug discovery. We discuss the perspectives of MicroED in synthetic chemistry and pharmaceutical development. We anticipate that the rapid advances MicroED showcased here will promote further development of electron crystallography and open up new opportunities for drug discovery.
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10
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Abstract
The bedrock of drug discovery and a key tool for understanding cellular function and drug mechanisms of action is the structure determination of chemical compounds, peptides, and proteins. The development of new structure characterization tools, particularly those that fill critical gaps in existing methods, presents important steps forward for structural biology and drug discovery. The emergence of microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) expands the application of cryo-electron microscopy to include samples ranging from small molecules and membrane proteins to even large protein complexes using crystals that are one-billionth the size of those required for X-ray crystallography. This review outlines the conception, achievements, and exciting future trajectories for MicroED, an important addition to the existing biophysical toolkit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelang Mu
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA; .,Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Cody Gillman
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA; .,Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Chi Nguyen
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA;
| | - Tamir Gonen
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA; .,Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
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11
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Clabbers MTB, Holmes S, Muusse TW, Vajjhala PR, Thygesen SJ, Malde AK, Hunter DJB, Croll TI, Flueckiger L, Nanson JD, Rahaman MH, Aquila A, Hunter MS, Liang M, Yoon CH, Zhao J, Zatsepin NA, Abbey B, Sierecki E, Gambin Y, Stacey KJ, Darmanin C, Kobe B, Xu H, Ve T. MyD88 TIR domain higher-order assembly interactions revealed by microcrystal electron diffraction and serial femtosecond crystallography. Nat Commun 2021; 12:2578. [PMID: 33972532 PMCID: PMC8110528 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22590-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
MyD88 and MAL are Toll-like receptor (TLR) adaptors that signal to induce pro-inflammatory cytokine production. We previously observed that the TIR domain of MAL (MALTIR) forms filaments in vitro and induces formation of crystalline higher-order assemblies of the MyD88 TIR domain (MyD88TIR). These crystals are too small for conventional X-ray crystallography, but are ideally suited to structure determination by microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) and serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX). Here, we present MicroED and SFX structures of the MyD88TIR assembly, which reveal a two-stranded higher-order assembly arrangement of TIR domains analogous to that seen previously for MALTIR. We demonstrate via mutagenesis that the MyD88TIR assembly interfaces are critical for TLR4 signaling in vivo, and we show that MAL promotes unidirectional assembly of MyD88TIR. Collectively, our studies provide structural and mechanistic insight into TLR signal transduction and allow a direct comparison of the MicroED and SFX techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max T B Clabbers
- Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Susannah Holmes
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy W Muusse
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Parimala R Vajjhala
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sara J Thygesen
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alpeshkumar K Malde
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dominic J B Hunter
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tristan I Croll
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Leonie Flueckiger
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D Nanson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Md Habibur Rahaman
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andrew Aquila
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - Mark S Hunter
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - Mengning Liang
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - Chun Hong Yoon
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - Jingjing Zhao
- Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nadia A Zatsepin
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brian Abbey
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Sierecki
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yann Gambin
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katryn J Stacey
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Connie Darmanin
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Bostjan Kobe
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Hongyi Xu
- Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Thomas Ve
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia.
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12
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Clabbers MTB, Xu H. Macromolecular crystallography using microcrystal electron diffraction. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2021; 77:313-324. [PMID: 33645535 PMCID: PMC7919406 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798320016368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) has recently emerged as a promising method for macromolecular structure determination in structural biology. Since the first protein structure was determined in 2013, the method has been evolving rapidly. Several protein structures have been determined and various studies indicate that MicroED is capable of (i) revealing atomic structures with charges, (ii) solving new protein structures by molecular replacement, (iii) visualizing ligand-binding interactions and (iv) determining membrane-protein structures from microcrystals embedded in lipidic mesophases. However, further development and optimization is required to make MicroED experiments more accurate and more accessible to the structural biology community. Here, we provide an overview of the current status of the field, and highlight the ongoing development, to provide an indication of where the field may be going in the coming years. We anticipate that MicroED will become a robust method for macromolecular structure determination, complementing existing methods in structural biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max T. B. Clabbers
- Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hongyi Xu
- Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
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13
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Abstract
Microcrystal Electron Diffraction (MicroED) enables structure determination of very small crystals that are much too small to be of use for other conventional diffraction techniques. MicroED has been used to determine the structures of many proteins and small organic molecules, and the technique can be performed on most standard cryo-TEM instruments equipped with high-speed detectors capable of collecting electron diffraction data. Here, we present protocols for MicroED sample preparation and data collection for protein microcrystals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanhong Bu
- Chemical Engineering, School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Biodesign Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Brent L Nannenga
- Chemical Engineering, School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.
- Biodesign Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.
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14
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Weiss S, Vergara S, Lin G, Calero G. Detection of Microcrystals for CryoEM. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2215:299-307. [PMID: 33368010 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0966-8_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Here, we present a strategy to identify microcrystals from initial protein crystallization screen experiments and to optimize diffraction quality of those crystals using negative stain transmission electron microscopy (TEM) as a guiding technique. The use of negative stain TEM allows visualization along the process and thus enables optimization of crystal diffraction by monitoring the lattice quality of crystallization conditions. Nanocrystals bearing perfect lattices are seeded and can be used for MicroED as well as growing larger crystals for X-ray and free electron laser (FEL) data collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Weiss
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sandra Vergara
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Guowu Lin
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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15
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Lahey-Rudolph JM, Schönherr R, Jeffries CM, Blanchet CE, Boger J, Ferreira Ramos AS, Riekehr WM, Triandafillidis DP, Valmas A, Margiolaki I, Svergun D, Redecke L. Rapid screening of in cellulo grown protein crystals via a small-angle X-ray scattering/X-ray powder diffraction synergistic approach. J Appl Crystallogr 2020; 53:1169-1180. [PMID: 33117106 PMCID: PMC7534541 DOI: 10.1107/s1600576720010687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Crystallization of recombinant proteins in living cells is an exciting new approach for structural biology that provides an alternative to the time-consuming optimization of protein purification and extensive crystal screening steps. Exploiting the potential of this approach requires a more detailed understanding of the cellular processes involved and versatile screening strategies for crystals in a cell culture. Particularly if the target protein forms crystalline structures of unknown morphology only in a small fraction of cells, their detection by applying standard visualization techniques can be time consuming and difficult owing to the environmental challenges imposed by the living cells. In this study, a high-brilliance and low-background bioSAXS beamline is employed for rapid and sensitive detection of protein microcrystals grown within insect cells. On the basis of the presence of Bragg peaks in the recorded small-angle X-ray scattering profiles, it is possible to assess within seconds whether a cell culture contains microcrystals, even in a small percentage of cells. Since such information cannot be obtained by other established detection methods in this time frame, this screening approach has the potential to overcome one of the bottlenecks of intracellular crystal detection. Moreover, the association of the Bragg peak positions in the scattering curves with the unit-cell composition of the protein crystals raises the possibility of investigating the impact of environmental conditions on the crystal structure of the intracellular protein crystals. This information provides valuable insights helping to further understand the in cellulo crystallization process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Mia Lahey-Rudolph
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck 23562, Germany
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Robert Schönherr
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck 23562, Germany
- Photon Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Cy M. Jeffries
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation, c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Clément E. Blanchet
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation, c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Juliane Boger
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | | | - Winnie Maria Riekehr
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | | | - Alexandros Valmas
- Department of Biology, Section of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Patras, Patras GR-26500, Greece
| | - Irene Margiolaki
- Department of Biology, Section of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Patras, Patras GR-26500, Greece
| | - Dmitri Svergun
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation, c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Lars Redecke
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck 23562, Germany
- Photon Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22607, Germany
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16
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Zatsepin NA, Li C, Colasurd P, Nannenga BL. The complementarity of serial femtosecond crystallography and MicroED for structure determination from microcrystals. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2019; 58:286-293. [PMID: 31345629 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2019.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, nano and microcrystals have emerged as a valuable source of high-resolution structural information owing to the invention of serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) with X-ray free electron lasers and microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) using electron cryomicroscopes. Once considered useless for structure determination, nano/microcrystals now confer significant advantages for static and time-resolved structure determination from a wide variety of difficult-to-study targets. MicroED has been used to obtain sub-Ångstrom resolution maps in which hydrogen atoms can be clearly resolved from only a few nano/microcrystals, while SFX has been used to probe protein dynamics following reaction initiation on time scales from femtoseconds to minutes. We review these two complementary techniques and their abilities for high-resolution structure determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia A Zatsepin
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, P.O. Box 871504, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Chufeng Li
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, P.O. Box 871504, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Paige Colasurd
- Chemical Engineering, School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Brent L Nannenga
- Chemical Engineering, School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA.
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17
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The cryo-EM method microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED). Nat Methods 2019; 16:369-379. [PMID: 31040436 PMCID: PMC6568260 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-019-0395-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
In 2013 we established a cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) technique called microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED). Since that time, data collection and analysis schemes have been fine-tuned, and structures for more than 40 different proteins, oligopeptides and organic molecules have been determined. Here we review the MicroED technique and place it in context with other structure-determination methods. We showcase example structures solved by MicroED and provide practical advice to prospective users.
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18
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Lin G, Weiss SC, Vergara S, Camacho C, Calero G. Transcription with a laser: Radiation-damage-free diffraction of RNA Polymerase II crystals. Methods 2019; 159-160:23-28. [PMID: 31029767 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2019.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Well-diffracting crystals are essential to obtain relevant structural data that will lead to understanding of RNA Polymerase II (Pol II) transcriptional processes at a molecular level. Here we present a strategy to study Pol II crystals using negative stain transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and a methodology to optimize radiation damage free data collection using free electron laser (FEL) at the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS). The use of negative stain TEM allowed visualization and optimization of crystal diffraction by monitoring the lattice quality of crystallization conditions. Nano crystals bearing perfect lattices were seeded and used to grow larger crystals for FEL data collection. Moreover, the use of in house designed crystal loops together with ultra-violet (UV) microscopy for crystal detection facilitated data collection. Such strategy permitted collection of multiple crystals of radiation-free-damage data, resulting in the highest resolution of wild type (WT) Pol II crystals ever observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowu Lin
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, United States
| | - Simon C Weiss
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, United States
| | - Sandra Vergara
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, United States
| | - Carlos Camacho
- Department of Computanional and Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, United States
| | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, United States.
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19
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Lanza A, Margheritis E, Mugnaioli E, Cappello V, Garau G, Gemmi M. Nanobeam precession-assisted 3D electron diffraction reveals a new polymorph of hen egg-white lysozyme. IUCRJ 2019; 6:178-188. [PMID: 30867915 PMCID: PMC6400191 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252518017657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in 3D electron diffraction have allowed the structure determination of several model proteins from submicrometric crystals, the unit-cell parameters and structures of which could be immediately validated by known models previously obtained by X-ray crystallography. Here, the first new protein structure determined by 3D electron diffraction data is presented: a previously unobserved polymorph of hen egg-white lysozyme. This form, with unit-cell parameters a = 31.9, b = 54.4, c = 71.8 Å, β = 98.8°, grows as needle-shaped submicrometric crystals simply by vapor diffusion starting from previously reported crystallization conditions. Remarkably, the data were collected using a low-dose stepwise experimental setup consisting of a precession-assisted nanobeam of ∼150 nm, which has never previously been applied for solving protein structures. The crystal structure was additionally validated using X-ray synchrotron-radiation sources by both powder diffraction and single-crystal micro-diffraction. 3D electron diffraction can be used for the structural characterization of submicrometric macromolecular crystals and is able to identify novel protein polymorphs that are hardly visible in conventional X-ray diffraction experiments. Additionally, the analysis, which was performed on both nanocrystals and microcrystals from the same crystallization drop, suggests that an integrated view from 3D electron diffraction and X-ray microfocus diffraction can be applied to obtain insights into the molecular dynamics during protein crystal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Lanza
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation@NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Eleonora Margheritis
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation@NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Enrico Mugnaioli
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation@NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Valentina Cappello
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation@NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Gianpiero Garau
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation@NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Mauro Gemmi
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation@NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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20
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Martiel I, Müller-Werkmeister HM, Cohen AE. Strategies for sample delivery for femtosecond crystallography. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2019; 75:160-177. [PMID: 30821705 PMCID: PMC6400256 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798318017953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Highly efficient data-collection methods are required for successful macromolecular crystallography (MX) experiments at X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs). XFEL beamtime is scarce, and the high peak brightness of each XFEL pulse destroys the exposed crystal volume. It is therefore necessary to combine diffraction images from a large number of crystals (hundreds to hundreds of thousands) to obtain a final data set, bringing about sample-refreshment challenges that have previously been unknown to the MX synchrotron community. In view of this experimental complexity, a number of sample delivery methods have emerged, each with specific requirements, drawbacks and advantages. To provide useful selection criteria for future experiments, this review summarizes the currently available sample delivery methods, emphasising the basic principles and the specific sample requirements. Two main approaches to sample delivery are first covered: (i) injector methods with liquid or viscous media and (ii) fixed-target methods using large crystals or using microcrystals inside multi-crystal holders or chips. Additionally, hybrid methods such as acoustic droplet ejection and crystal extraction are covered, which combine the advantages of both fixed-target and injector approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Martiel
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Henrike M. Müller-Werkmeister
- Institute of Chemistry – Physical Chemistry, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Strasse 24-25, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Aina E. Cohen
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, 2575 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
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21
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Grünbein ML, Nass Kovacs G. Sample delivery for serial crystallography at free-electron lasers and synchrotrons. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2019; 75:178-191. [PMID: 30821706 PMCID: PMC6400261 DOI: 10.1107/s205979831801567x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The high peak brilliance and femtosecond pulse duration of X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) provide new scientific opportunities for experiments in physics, chemistry and biology. In structural biology, one of the major applications is serial femtosecond crystallography. The intense XFEL pulse results in the destruction of any exposed microcrystal, making serial data collection mandatory. This requires a high-throughput serial approach to sample delivery. To this end, a number of such sample-delivery techniques have been developed, some of which have been ported to synchrotron sources, where they allow convenient low-dose data collection at room temperature. Here, the current sample-delivery techniques used at XFEL and synchrotron sources are reviewed, with an emphasis on liquid injection and high-viscosity extrusion, including their application for time-resolved experiments. The challenges associated with sample delivery at megahertz repetition-rate XFELs are also outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Luise Grünbein
- Department of Biomolecular Mechanisms, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Jahnstrasse 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gabriela Nass Kovacs
- Department of Biomolecular Mechanisms, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Jahnstrasse 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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22
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Gallagher-Jones M, Ophus C, Bustillo KC, Boyer DR, Panova O, Glynn C, Zee CT, Ciston J, Mancia KC, Minor AM, Rodriguez JA. Nanoscale mosaicity revealed in peptide microcrystals by scanning electron nanodiffraction. Commun Biol 2019; 2:26. [PMID: 30675524 PMCID: PMC6338664 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-018-0263-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in lattice structure across sub-regions of protein crystals are challenging to assess when relying on whole crystal measurements. Because of this difficulty, macromolecular structure determination from protein micro and nanocrystals requires assumptions of bulk crystallinity and domain block substructure. Here we map lattice structure across micron size areas of cryogenically preserved three-dimensional peptide crystals using a nano-focused electron beam. This approach produces diffraction from as few as 1500 molecules in a crystal, is sensitive to crystal thickness and three-dimensional lattice orientation. Real-space maps reconstructed from unsupervised classification of diffraction patterns across a crystal reveal regions of crystal order/disorder and three-dimensional lattice tilts on the sub-100nm scale. The nanoscale lattice reorientation observed in the micron-sized peptide crystal lattices studied here provides a direct view of their plasticity. Knowledge of these features facilitates an improved understanding of peptide assemblies that could aid in the determination of structures from nano- and microcrystals by single or serial crystal electron diffraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Gallagher-Jones
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Colin Ophus
- National Center for Electron Microscopy, Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
| | - Karen C. Bustillo
- National Center for Electron Microscopy, Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
| | - David R. Boyer
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Ouliana Panova
- National Center for Electron Microscopy, Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
| | - Calina Glynn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Chih-Te Zee
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Jim Ciston
- National Center for Electron Microscopy, Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
| | - Kevin Canton Mancia
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Andrew M. Minor
- National Center for Electron Microscopy, Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
| | - Jose A. Rodriguez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
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23
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Baitan D, Schubert R, Meyer A, Dierks K, Perbandt M, Betzel C. Growing Protein Crystals with Distinct Dimensions Using Automated Crystallization Coupled with In Situ Dynamic Light Scattering. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 30175998 PMCID: PMC6126796 DOI: 10.3791/57070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The automated crystallization device is a patented technique1 especially developed for monitoring protein crystallization experiments with the aim to precisely maneuver the nucleation and crystal growth towards desired sizes of protein crystals. The controlled crystallization is based on sample investigation with in situ Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) while all visual changes in the droplet are monitored online with the help of a microscope coupled to a CCD camera, thus enabling a full investigation of the protein droplet during all stages of crystallization. The use of in situ DLS measurements throughout the entire experiment allows a precise identification of the highly supersaturated protein solution transitioning to a new phase – the formation of crystal nuclei. By identifying the protein nucleation stage, the crystallization can be optimized from large protein crystals to the production of protein microcrystals. The experimental protocol shows an interactive crystallization approach based on precise automated steps such as precipitant addition, water evaporation for inducing high supersaturation, and sample dilution for slowing induced homogeneous nucleation or reversing phase transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Baitan
- Xtal Concepts GmbH; Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory for Structural Biology of Infection and Inflammation c/o DESY, University of Hamburg
| | - Robin Schubert
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory for Structural Biology of Infection and Inflammation c/o DESY, University of Hamburg; The Hamburg Center for Ultrafast Imaging, University of Hamburg
| | | | | | - Markus Perbandt
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory for Structural Biology of Infection and Inflammation c/o DESY, University of Hamburg; The Hamburg Center for Ultrafast Imaging, University of Hamburg
| | - Christian Betzel
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory for Structural Biology of Infection and Inflammation c/o DESY, University of Hamburg; The Hamburg Center for Ultrafast Imaging, University of Hamburg;
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24
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Sleutel M, Van Driessche AES. Nucleation of protein crystals - a nanoscopic perspective. NANOSCALE 2018; 10:12256-12267. [PMID: 29947625 DOI: 10.1039/c8nr02867b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Macromolecular phase transitions bear great medical, scientific and industrial relevance, yet the molecular picture of their earliest beginnings is still far from complete. For decades, progress has been hampered by the challenges associated with studying stochastic nucleation phenomena occurring on nanoscopic length scales. In the last 5 years, however, the field has advanced with great strides due to the recent buildout of experimental techniques that allow us to observe details of the nucleation process on the nanoscale. In this review, we present a historical overview and state-of-the-art analysis of protein crystal nucleation from an experimentalist's perspective. After a short introduction of key concepts from classical nucleation theory, we discuss the advancements that have led to the development of alternative models of protein nucleation. We summarize the experimental proof in favour of these various models, but we also focus on some of their shortcomings and experimental blind spots. In our penultimate section we highlight recent works that have provided direct nanoscopic insight into the nucleation of protein crystals. We end with concluding paragraphs discussing outstanding questions and possible strategies to advance the field further in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Sleutel
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.
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25
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Abstract
Micro-electron diffraction, or MicroED, is a structure determination method that uses a cryo-transmission electron microscope to collect electron diffraction data from nanocrystals. This technique has been successfully used to determine the high-resolution structures of many targets from crystals orders of magnitude smaller than what is needed for X-ray diffraction experiments. In this review, we will describe the MicroED method and recent structures that have been determined. Additionally, applications of electron diffraction to the fields of small molecule crystallography and materials science will be discussed.
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26
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Clabbers MTB, Abrahams JP. Electron diffraction and three-dimensional crystallography for structural biology. CRYSTALLOGR REV 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/0889311x.2018.1446427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Max T. B. Clabbers
- Center for Cellular Imaging and NanoAnalytics (C-CINA), Biozentrum, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Pieter Abrahams
- Center for Cellular Imaging and NanoAnalytics (C-CINA), Biozentrum, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), Villigen PSI, Switzerland
- Institute of Biology Leiden (IBL), Leiden, Netherlands
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27
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Rittschof CC, Hughes KA. Advancing behavioural genomics by considering timescale. Nat Commun 2018; 9:489. [PMID: 29434301 PMCID: PMC5809431 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-02971-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal behavioural traits often covary with gene expression, pointing towards a genomic constraint on organismal responses to environmental cues. This pattern highlights a gap in our understanding of the time course of environmentally responsive gene expression, and moreover, how these dynamics are regulated. Advances in behavioural genomics explore how gene expression dynamics are correlated with behavioural traits that range from stable to highly labile. We consider the idea that certain genomic regulatory mechanisms may predict the timescale of an environmental effect on behaviour. This temporally minded approach could inform both organismal and evolutionary questions ranging from the remediation of early life social trauma to understanding the evolution of trait plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare C Rittschof
- Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40546, USA.
| | - Kimberly A Hughes
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306, USA
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28
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Lee DB, Kim JM, Seok JH, Lee JH, Jo JD, Mun JY, Conrad C, Coe J, Nelson G, Hogue B, White TA, Zatsepin N, Weierstall U, Barty A, Chapman H, Fromme P, Spence J, Chung MS, Oh CH, Kim KH. Supersaturation-controlled microcrystallization and visualization analysis for serial femtosecond crystallography. Sci Rep 2018; 8:2541. [PMID: 29416086 PMCID: PMC5803221 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20899-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Time-resolved serial femtosecond crystallography with X-ray free electron laser (XFEL) holds the potential to view fast reactions occurring at near-physiological temperature. However, production and characterization of homogeneous micron-sized protein crystals at high density remain a bottleneck, due to the lack of the necessary equipments in ordinary laboratories. We describe here supersaturation-controlled microcrystallization and visualization and analysis tools that can be easily used in any laboratory. The microcrystallization conditions of the influenza virus hemagglutinin were initially obtained with low reproducibility, which was improved by employing a rapid evaporation of hanging drops. Supersaturation-controlled microcrystallization was then developed in a vapor diffusion mode, where supersaturation was induced by evaporation in hanging drops sequentially for durations ranging from 30 sec to 3 min, depending on the protein. It was applied successfully to the microcrystal formation of lysozyme, ferritin and hemagglutinin with high density. Moreover, visualization and analysis tools were developed to characterize the microcrystals observed by light microscopy. The size and density distributions of microcrystals analyzed by the tools were found to be consistent with the results of manual analysis, further validated by high-resolution microscopic analyses. Our supersaturation-controlled microcrystallization and visualization and analysis tools will provide universal access to successful XFEL studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Bi Lee
- Department of Biotechnology & Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong, Korea
| | - Jong-Min Kim
- Department of Electronics & Information Engineering, Korea University, Sejong, Korea
| | - Jong Hyeon Seok
- Department of Biotechnology & Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong, Korea
| | - Ji-Hye Lee
- Department of Biotechnology & Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong, Korea
| | - Jae Deok Jo
- Department of Biotechnology & Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong, Korea
| | - Ji Young Mun
- Department of Structure and Function of Neural Network, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Korea
| | - Chelsie Conrad
- Department of Chemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Jesse Coe
- Department of Chemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Garrett Nelson
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Brenda Hogue
- Biodesign Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Thomas A White
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nadia Zatsepin
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Uwe Weierstall
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Anton Barty
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Henry Chapman
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Petra Fromme
- Department of Chemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - John Spence
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Mi Sook Chung
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Duksung Women's University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang-Hyun Oh
- Department of Electronics & Information Engineering, Korea University, Sejong, Korea.
| | - Kyung Hyun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology & Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong, Korea.
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Clabbers MTB, van Genderen E, Wan W, Wiegers EL, Gruene T, Abrahams JP. Protein structure determination by electron diffraction using a single three-dimensional nanocrystal. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2017; 73:738-748. [PMID: 28876237 PMCID: PMC5586247 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798317010348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional nanometre-sized crystals of macromolecules currently resist structure elucidation by single-crystal X-ray crystallography. Here, a single nanocrystal with a diffracting volume of only 0.14 µm3, i.e. no more than 6 × 105 unit cells, provided sufficient information to determine the structure of a rare dimeric polymorph of hen egg-white lysozyme by electron crystallography. This is at least an order of magnitude smaller than was previously possible. The molecular-replacement solution, based on a monomeric polyalanine model, provided sufficient phasing power to show side-chain density, and automated model building was used to reconstruct the side chains. Diffraction data were acquired using the rotation method with parallel beam diffraction on a Titan Krios transmission electron microscope equipped with a novel in-house-designed 1024 × 1024 pixel Timepix hybrid pixel detector for low-dose diffraction data collection. Favourable detector characteristics include the ability to accurately discriminate single high-energy electrons from X-rays and count them, fast readout to finely sample reciprocal space and a high dynamic range. This work, together with other recent milestones, suggests that electron crystallography can provide an attractive alternative in determining biological structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. T. B. Clabbers
- Center for Cellular Imaging and NanoAnalytics (C-CINA), Biozentrum, Basel University, Mattenstrasse 26, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - E. van Genderen
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI), CH-5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - W. Wan
- Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - E. L. Wiegers
- Leiden Institute of Physics, Leiden University, Niels Bohrweg 2, 2333 CA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - T. Gruene
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI), CH-5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - J. P. Abrahams
- Center for Cellular Imaging and NanoAnalytics (C-CINA), Biozentrum, Basel University, Mattenstrasse 26, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI), CH-5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
- Leiden Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands
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30
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Locating and Visualizing Crystals for X-Ray Diffraction Experiments. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2017; 1607:143-164. [PMID: 28573572 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7000-1_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Macromolecular crystallography has advanced from using macroscopic crystals, which might be >1 mm on a side, to crystals that are essentially invisible to the naked eye, or even under a standard laboratory microscope. As crystallography requires recognizing crystals when they are produced, and then placing them in an X-ray, electron, or neutron beam, this provides challenges, particularly in the case of advanced X-ray sources, where beams have very small cross sections and crystals may be vanishingly small. Methods for visualizing crystals are reviewed here, and examples of different types of cases are presented, including: standard crystals, crystals grown in mesophase, in situ crystallography, and crystals grown for X-ray Free Electron Laser or Micro Electron Diffraction experiments. As most techniques have limitations, it is desirable to have a range of complementary techniques available to identify and locate crystals. Ideally, a given technique should not cause sample damage, but sometimes it is necessary to use techniques where damage can only be minimized. For extreme circumstances, the act of probing location may be coincident with collecting X-ray diffraction data. Future challenges and directions are also discussed.
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Abstract
Membrane proteins are crucial components of cellular membranes and are responsible for a variety of physiological functions. The advent of new tools and technologies for structural biology of membrane proteins has led to a significant increase in the number of structures deposited to the Protein Data Bank during the past decade. This new knowledge has expanded our fundamental understanding of their mechanism of function and contributed to the drug-design efforts. In this chapter we discuss current approaches for membrane protein expression, solubilization, crystallization, and data collection. Additionally, we describe the protein quality-control assays that are often instrumental as a guideline for a shorter path toward the structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrii Ishchenko
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Enrique E Abola
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Vadim Cherezov
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA.
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Stevenson HP, Lin G, Barnes CO, Sutkeviciute I, Krzysiak T, Weiss SC, Reynolds S, Wu Y, Nagarajan V, Makhov AM, Lawrence R, Lamm E, Clark L, Gardella TJ, Hogue BG, Ogata CM, Ahn J, Gronenborn AM, Conway JF, Vilardaga JP, Cohen AE, Calero G. Transmission electron microscopy for the evaluation and optimization of crystal growth. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2016; 72:603-15. [PMID: 27139624 PMCID: PMC4854312 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798316001546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The crystallization of protein samples remains the most significant challenge in structure determination by X-ray crystallography. Here, the effectiveness of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis to aid in the crystallization of biological macromolecules is demonstrated. It was found that the presence of well ordered lattices with higher order Bragg spots, revealed by Fourier analysis of TEM images, is a good predictor of diffraction-quality crystals. Moreover, the use of TEM allowed (i) comparison of lattice quality among crystals from different conditions in crystallization screens; (ii) the detection of crystal pathologies that could contribute to poor X-ray diffraction, including crystal lattice defects, anisotropic diffraction and crystal contamination by heavy protein aggregates and nanocrystal nuclei; (iii) the qualitative estimation of crystal solvent content to explore the effect of lattice dehydration on diffraction and (iv) the selection of high-quality crystal fragments for microseeding experiments to generate reproducibly larger sized crystals. Applications to X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) and micro-electron diffraction (microED) experiments are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary P. Stevenson
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Guowu Lin
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Christopher O. Barnes
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Ieva Sutkeviciute
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, M240 Scaife Hall, 3550 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Troy Krzysiak
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Simon C. Weiss
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Shelley Reynolds
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Ying Wu
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | | | - Alexander M. Makhov
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Robert Lawrence
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Emily Lamm
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Lisa Clark
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Timothy J. Gardella
- Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Brenda G. Hogue
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Craig M. Ogata
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Ave, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Jinwoo Ahn
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Angela M. Gronenborn
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - James F. Conway
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Jean-Pierre Vilardaga
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, M240 Scaife Hall, 3550 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Aina E. Cohen
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, 2575 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
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Martin-Garcia JM, Conrad CE, Coe J, Roy-Chowdhury S, Fromme P. Serial femtosecond crystallography: A revolution in structural biology. Arch Biochem Biophys 2016; 602:32-47. [PMID: 27143509 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2016.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Macromolecular crystallography at synchrotron sources has proven to be the most influential method within structural biology, producing thousands of structures since its inception. While its utility has been instrumental in progressing our knowledge of structures of molecules, it suffers from limitations such as the need for large, well-diffracting crystals, and radiation damage that can hamper native structural determination. The recent advent of X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) and their implementation in the emerging field of serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) has given rise to a remarkable expansion upon existing crystallographic constraints, allowing structural biologists access to previously restricted scientific territory. SFX relies on exceptionally brilliant, micro-focused X-ray pulses, which are femtoseconds in duration, to probe nano/micrometer sized crystals in a serial fashion. This results in data sets comprised of individual snapshots, each capturing Bragg diffraction of single crystals in random orientations prior to their subsequent destruction. Thus structural elucidation while avoiding radiation damage, even at room temperature, can now be achieved. This emerging field has cultivated new methods for nanocrystallogenesis, sample delivery, and data processing. Opportunities and challenges within SFX are reviewed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose M Martin-Garcia
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1604, USA; Center for Applied Structural Discovery, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-7401, USA
| | - Chelsie E Conrad
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1604, USA; Center for Applied Structural Discovery, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-7401, USA
| | - Jesse Coe
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1604, USA; Center for Applied Structural Discovery, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-7401, USA
| | - Shatabdi Roy-Chowdhury
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1604, USA; Center for Applied Structural Discovery, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-7401, USA
| | - Petra Fromme
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1604, USA; Center for Applied Structural Discovery, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-7401, USA.
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Shi D, Nannenga BL, de la Cruz MJ, Liu J, Sawtelle S, Calero G, Reyes FE, Hattne J, Gonen T. The collection of MicroED data for macromolecular crystallography. Nat Protoc 2016; 11:895-904. [PMID: 27077331 PMCID: PMC5357465 DOI: 10.1038/nprot.2016.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The formation of large, well-ordered crystals for crystallographic experiments remains a crucial bottleneck to the structural understanding of many important biological systems. To help alleviate this problem in crystallography, we have developed the MicroED method for the collection of electron diffraction data from 3D microcrystals and nanocrystals of radiation-sensitive biological material. In this approach, liquid solutions containing protein microcrystals are deposited on carbon-coated electron microscopy grids and are vitrified by plunging them into liquid ethane. MicroED data are collected for each selected crystal using cryo-electron microscopy, in which the crystal is diffracted using very few electrons as the stage is continuously rotated. This protocol gives advice on how to identify microcrystals by light microscopy or by negative-stain electron microscopy in samples obtained from standard protein crystallization experiments. The protocol also includes information about custom-designed equipment for controlling crystal rotation and software for recording experimental parameters in diffraction image metadata. Identifying microcrystals, preparing samples and setting up the microscope for diffraction data collection take approximately half an hour for each step. Screening microcrystals for quality diffraction takes roughly an hour, and the collection of a single data set is ∼10 min in duration. Complete data sets and resulting high-resolution structures can be obtained from a single crystal or by merging data from multiple crystals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Shi
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA
| | - Brent L Nannenga
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA
| | - M Jason de la Cruz
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA
| | - Jinyang Liu
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA
| | - Steven Sawtelle
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA
| | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Francis E Reyes
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA
| | - Johan Hattne
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA
| | - Tamir Gonen
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA
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35
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Barnes CO, Kovaleva EG, Fu X, Stevenson HP, Brewster AS, DePonte DP, Baxter EL, Cohen AE, Calero G. Assessment of microcrystal quality by transmission electron microscopy for efficient serial femtosecond crystallography. Arch Biochem Biophys 2016; 602:61-68. [PMID: 26944553 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2016.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Revised: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) employing high-intensity X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) sources has enabled structural studies on microcrystalline protein samples at non-cryogenic temperatures. However, the identification and optimization of conditions that produce well diffracting microcrystals remains an experimental challenge. Here, we report parallel SFX and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) experiments using fragmented microcrystals of wild type (WT) homoprotocatechuate 2,3-dioxygenase (HPCD) and an active site variant (H200Q). Despite identical crystallization conditions and morphology, as well as similar crystal size and density, the indexing efficiency of the diffraction data collected using the H200Q variant sample was over 7-fold higher compared to the diffraction results obtained using the WT sample. TEM analysis revealed an abundance of protein aggregates, crystal conglomerates and a smaller population of highly ordered lattices in the WT sample as compared to the H200Q variant sample. While not reported herein, the 1.75 Å resolution structure of the H200Q variant was determined from ∼16 min of beam time, demonstrating the utility of TEM analysis in evaluating sample monodispersity and lattice quality, parameters critical to the efficiency of SFX experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher O Barnes
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Elena G Kovaleva
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Fu
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Hilary P Stevenson
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Aaron S Brewster
- Molecular Biophysics & Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | | | | | - Aina E Cohen
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
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Jakobi AJ, Passon DM, Knoops K, Stellato F, Liang M, White TA, Seine T, Messerschmidt M, Chapman HN, Wilmanns M. In cellulo serial crystallography of alcohol oxidase crystals inside yeast cells. IUCRJ 2016; 3:88-95. [PMID: 27006771 PMCID: PMC4775156 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252515022927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The possibility of using femtosecond pulses from an X-ray free-electron laser to collect diffraction data from protein crystals formed in their native cellular organelle has been explored. X-ray diffraction of submicrometre-sized alcohol oxidase crystals formed in peroxisomes within cells of genetically modified variants of the methylotrophic yeast Hansenula polymorpha is reported and characterized. The observations are supported by synchrotron radiation-based powder diffraction data and electron microscopy. Based on these findings, the concept of in cellulo serial crystallography on protein targets imported into yeast peroxisomes without the need for protein purification as a requirement for subsequent crystallization is outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjen J. Jakobi
- Hamburg Unit c/o DESY, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel M. Passon
- Hamburg Unit c/o DESY, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kèvin Knoops
- Molecular Cell Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Francesco Stellato
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mengning Liang
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas A. White
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Seine
- Hamburg Unit c/o DESY, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc Messerschmidt
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - Henry N. Chapman
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Physics, University of Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
- Center for Ultrafast Imaging, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Wilmanns
- Hamburg Unit c/o DESY, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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37
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Fusco D, Charbonneau P. Soft matter perspective on protein crystal assembly. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2016; 137:22-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2015.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Baxter EL, Aguila L, Alonso-Mori R, Barnes CO, Bonagura CA, Brehmer W, Brunger AT, Calero G, Caradoc-Davies TT, Chatterjee R, Degrado WF, Fraser JS, Ibrahim M, Kern J, Kobilka BK, Kruse AC, Larsson KM, Lemke HT, Lyubimov AY, Manglik A, McPhillips SE, Norgren E, Pang SS, Soltis SM, Song J, Thomaston J, Tsai Y, Weis WI, Woldeyes RA, Yachandra V, Yano J, Zouni A, Cohen AE. High-density grids for efficient data collection from multiple crystals. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2016; 72:2-11. [PMID: 26894529 PMCID: PMC4756618 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798315020847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Higher throughput methods to mount and collect data from multiple small and radiation-sensitive crystals are important to support challenging structural investigations using microfocus synchrotron beamlines. Furthermore, efficient sample-delivery methods are essential to carry out productive femtosecond crystallography experiments at X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) sources such as the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS). To address these needs, a high-density sample grid useful as a scaffold for both crystal growth and diffraction data collection has been developed and utilized for efficient goniometer-based sample delivery at synchrotron and XFEL sources. A single grid contains 75 mounting ports and fits inside an SSRL cassette or uni-puck storage container. The use of grids with an SSRL cassette expands the cassette capacity up to 7200 samples. Grids may also be covered with a polymer film or sleeve for efficient room-temperature data collection from multiple samples. New automated routines have been incorporated into the Blu-Ice/DCSS experimental control system to support grids, including semi-automated grid alignment, fully automated positioning of grid ports, rastering and automated data collection. Specialized tools have been developed to support crystallization experiments on grids, including a universal adaptor, which allows grids to be filled by commercial liquid-handling robots, as well as incubation chambers, which support vapor-diffusion and lipidic cubic phase crystallization experiments. Experiments in which crystals were loaded into grids or grown on grids using liquid-handling robots and incubation chambers are described. Crystals were screened at LCLS-XPP and SSRL BL12-2 at room temperature and cryogenic temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L. Baxter
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Laura Aguila
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Roberto Alonso-Mori
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Christopher O. Barnes
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | | | - Winnie Brehmer
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Axel T. Brunger
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Tom T. Caradoc-Davies
- The ARC Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Australian Synchrotron, 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Ruchira Chatterjee
- Physical Bioscences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - William F. Degrado
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - James S. Fraser
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Mohamed Ibrahim
- Institut für Biologie, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Kern
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
- Physical Bioscences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Brian K. Kobilka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Andrew C. Kruse
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Karl M. Larsson
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Heinrik T. Lemke
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Artem Y. Lyubimov
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Aashish Manglik
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Scott E. McPhillips
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Erik Norgren
- Art Robbins Instruments, Sunnyvale, CA 94089, USA
| | - Siew S. Pang
- The ARC Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - S. M. Soltis
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Jinhu Song
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Jessica Thomaston
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Yingssu Tsai
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - William I. Weis
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Rahel A. Woldeyes
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Vittal Yachandra
- Physical Bioscences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Junko Yano
- Physical Bioscences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Athina Zouni
- Institut für Biologie, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Aina E. Cohen
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
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Schubert R, Meyer A, Dierks K, Kapis S, Reimer R, Einspahr H, Perbandt M, Betzel C. Reliably distinguishing protein nanocrystals from amorphous precipitate by means of depolarized dynamic light scattering. J Appl Crystallogr 2015. [DOI: 10.1107/s1600576715014740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Crystallization of biological macromolecules such as proteins implies several prerequisites, for example, the presence of one or more initial nuclei, sufficient amounts of the crystallizing substance and the chemical potential to provide the free energy needed to force the process. The initiation of a crystallization process itself is a stochastic event, forming symmetrically assembled nuclei over kinetically preferred protein-dense liquid clusters. The presence of a spatial repetitive orientation of macromolecules in the early stages of the crystallization process has so far proved undetectable. However, early identification of the occurrences of unit cells is the key to nanocrystal detection. The optical properties of a crystal lattice offer a potential signal with which to detect whether a transition from disordered to ordered particles occurs, one that has so far not been tested in nanocrystalline applications. The ability of a lattice to depolarize laser light depends on the different refractive indices along different crystal axes. In this study a unique experimental setup is used to detect nanocrystal formation by application of depolarized scattered light. The results demonstrate the successful detection of nano-sized protein crystals at early stages of crystal growth, allowing an effective differentiation between protein-dense liquid cluster formation and ordered nanocrystals. The results are further verified by complementary methods like X-ray powder diffraction, second harmonic generation, ultraviolet two-photon excited fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy.
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Abdallah BG, Zatsepin NA, Roy-Chowdhury S, Coe J, Conrad CE, Dörner K, Sierra RG, Stevenson HP, Camacho-Alanis F, Grant TD, Nelson G, James D, Calero G, Wachter RM, Spence JCH, Weierstall U, Fromme P, Ros A. Microfluidic sorting of protein nanocrystals by size for X-ray free-electron laser diffraction. STRUCTURAL DYNAMICS (MELVILLE, N.Y.) 2015; 2:041719. [PMID: 26798818 PMCID: PMC4711642 DOI: 10.1063/1.4928688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/05/2015] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The advent and application of the X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) has uncovered the structures of proteins that could not previously be solved using traditional crystallography. While this new technology is powerful, optimization of the process is still needed to improve data quality and analysis efficiency. One area is sample heterogeneity, where variations in crystal size (among other factors) lead to the requirement of large data sets (and thus 10-100 mg of protein) for determining accurate structure factors. To decrease sample dispersity, we developed a high-throughput microfluidic sorter operating on the principle of dielectrophoresis, whereby polydisperse particles can be transported into various fluid streams for size fractionation. Using this microsorter, we isolated several milliliters of photosystem I nanocrystal fractions ranging from 200 to 600 nm in size as characterized by dynamic light scattering, nanoparticle tracking, and electron microscopy. Sorted nanocrystals were delivered in a liquid jet via the gas dynamic virtual nozzle into the path of the XFEL at the Linac Coherent Light Source. We obtained diffraction to ∼4 Å resolution, indicating that the small crystals were not damaged by the sorting process. We also observed the shape transforms of photosystem I nanocrystals, demonstrating that our device can optimize data collection for the shape transform-based phasing method. Using simulations, we show that narrow crystal size distributions can significantly improve merged data quality in serial crystallography. From this proof-of-concept work, we expect that the automated size-sorting of protein crystals will become an important step for sample production by reducing the amount of protein needed for a high quality final structure and the development of novel phasing methods that exploit inter-Bragg reflection intensities or use variations in beam intensity for radiation damage-induced phasing. This method will also permit an analysis of the dependence of crystal quality on crystal size.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Raymond G Sierra
- Stanford PULSE Institute, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory , Menlo Park, California 94025, USA
| | - Hilary P Stevenson
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Fernanda Camacho-Alanis
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arizona State University , Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
| | - Thomas D Grant
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, University at Buffalo , Buffalo, New York 14203, USA
| | | | | | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Rebekka M Wachter
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arizona State University , Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
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Schlichting I. Serial femtosecond crystallography: the first five years. IUCRJ 2015; 2:246-55. [PMID: 25866661 PMCID: PMC4392417 DOI: 10.1107/s205225251402702x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Protein crystallography using synchrotron radiation sources has had a tremendous impact on biology, having yielded the structures of thousands of proteins and given detailed insight into their mechanisms. However, the technique is limited by the requirement for macroscopic crystals, which can be difficult to obtain, as well as by the often severe radiation damage caused in diffraction experiments, in particular when using tiny crystals. To slow radiation damage, data collection is typically performed at cryogenic temperatures. With the advent of free-electron lasers (FELs) capable of delivering extremely intense femtosecond X-ray pulses, this situation appears to be remedied, allowing the structure determination of undamaged macromolecules using either macroscopic or microscopic crystals. The latter are exposed to the FEL beam in random orientations and their diffraction data are collected at cryogenic or room temperature in a serial fashion, since each crystal is destroyed upon a single exposure. The new approaches required for crystal growth and delivery, and for diffraction data analysis, including de novo phasing, are reviewed. The opportunities and challenges of SFX are described, including applications such as time-resolved measurements and the analysis of radiation damage-prone systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilme Schlichting
- Department of Biomolecular Mechanisms, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Jahnstraße 29, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
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Stevenson HP, DePonte DP, Makhov AM, Conway JF, Zeldin OB, Boutet S, Calero G, Cohen AE. Transmission electron microscopy as a tool for nanocrystal characterization pre- and post-injector. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2015; 369:20130322. [PMID: 24914151 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2013.0322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements at the Linac Coherent Light Source X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) enabling successful serial femtosecond diffraction experiments using nanometre-sized crystals (NCs) have opened up the possibility of X-ray structure determination of proteins that produce only submicrometre crystals such as many membrane proteins. Careful crystal pre-characterization including compatibility testing of the sample delivery method is essential to ensure efficient use of the limited beamtime available at XFEL sources. This work demonstrates the utility of transmission electron microscopy for detecting and evaluating NCs within the carrier solutions of liquid injectors. The diffraction quality of these crystals may be assessed by examining the crystal lattice and by calculating the fast Fourier transform of the image. Injector reservoir solutions, as well as solutions collected post-injection, were evaluated for three types of protein NCs (i) the membrane protein PTHR1, (ii) the multi-protein complex Pol II-GFP and (iii) the soluble protein lysozyme. Our results indicate that the concentration and diffraction quality of NCs, particularly those with high solvent content and sensitivity to mechanical manipulation may be affected by the delivery process.
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Affiliation(s)
- H P Stevenson
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 1040 Biomedical Science Tower 3, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - D P DePonte
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, 2575 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - A M Makhov
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 1040 Biomedical Science Tower 3, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - James F Conway
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 1040 Biomedical Science Tower 3, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - O B Zeldin
- Department of Structural Biology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - S Boutet
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, 2575 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - G Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 1040 Biomedical Science Tower 3, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - A E Cohen
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, 2575 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
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Cohen AE, Soltis SM, González A, Aguila L, Alonso-Mori R, Barnes CO, Baxter EL, Brehmer W, Brewster AS, Brunger AT, Calero G, Chang JF, Chollet M, Ehrensberger P, Eriksson TL, Feng Y, Hattne J, Hedman B, Hollenbeck M, Holton JM, Keable S, Kobilka BK, Kovaleva EG, Kruse AC, Lemke HT, Lin G, Lyubimov AY, Manglik A, Mathews II, McPhillips SE, Nelson S, Peters JW, Sauter NK, Smith CA, Song J, Stevenson HP, Tsai Y, Uervirojnangkoorn M, Vinetsky V, Wakatsuki S, Weis WI, Zadvornyy OA, Zeldin OB, Zhu D, Hodgson KO. Goniometer-based femtosecond crystallography with X-ray free electron lasers. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:17122-7. [PMID: 25362050 PMCID: PMC4260607 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1418733111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The emerging method of femtosecond crystallography (FX) may extend the diffraction resolution accessible from small radiation-sensitive crystals and provides a means to determine catalytically accurate structures of acutely radiation-sensitive metalloenzymes. Automated goniometer-based instrumentation developed for use at the Linac Coherent Light Source enabled efficient and flexible FX experiments to be performed on a variety of sample types. In the case of rod-shaped Cpl hydrogenase crystals, only five crystals and about 30 min of beam time were used to obtain the 125 still diffraction patterns used to produce a 1.6-Å resolution electron density map. For smaller crystals, high-density grids were used to increase sample throughput; 930 myoglobin crystals mounted at random orientation inside 32 grids were exposed, demonstrating the utility of this approach. Screening results from cryocooled crystals of β2-adrenoreceptor and an RNA polymerase II complex indicate the potential to extend the diffraction resolution obtainable from very radiation-sensitive samples beyond that possible with undulator-based synchrotron sources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Christopher O Barnes
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
| | | | | | - Aaron S Brewster
- Physical Biosciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Axel T Brunger
- Molecular and Cellular Physiology, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Johan Hattne
- Physical Biosciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | | | | | - James M Holton
- Physical Biosciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158; and
| | - Stephen Keable
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59715
| | | | | | | | | | - Guowu Lin
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
| | - Artem Y Lyubimov
- Molecular and Cellular Physiology, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | | | | | | | | | - John W Peters
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59715
| | - Nicholas K Sauter
- Physical Biosciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | | | - Jinhu Song
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource
| | - Hilary P Stevenson
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
| | - Yingssu Tsai
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, Departments of Chemistry
| | - Monarin Uervirojnangkoorn
- Molecular and Cellular Physiology, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | | | - Soichi Wakatsuki
- Photon Science, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, Menlo Park, CA 94025; Structural Biology, and
| | - William I Weis
- Molecular and Cellular Physiology, and Structural Biology, and
| | - Oleg A Zadvornyy
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59715
| | - Oliver B Zeldin
- Molecular and Cellular Physiology, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | | | - Keith O Hodgson
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, Departments of Chemistry,
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Calero G, Cohen AE, Luft JR, Newman J, Snell EH. Identifying, studying and making good use of macromolecular crystals. ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION F-STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY COMMUNICATIONS 2014; 70:993-1008. [PMID: 25084371 PMCID: PMC4118793 DOI: 10.1107/s2053230x14016574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
As technology advances, the crystal volume that can be used to collect useful X-ray diffraction data decreases. The technologies available to detect and study growing crystals beyond the optical resolution limit and methods to successfully place the crystal into the X-ray beam are discussed. Structural biology has contributed tremendous knowledge to the understanding of life on the molecular scale. The Protein Data Bank, a depository of this structural knowledge, currently contains over 100 000 protein structures, with the majority stemming from X-ray crystallography. As the name might suggest, crystallography requires crystals. As detectors become more sensitive and X-ray sources more intense, the notion of a crystal is gradually changing from one large enough to embellish expensive jewellery to objects that have external dimensions of the order of the wavelength of visible light. Identifying these crystals is a prerequisite to their study. This paper discusses developments in identifying these crystals during crystallization screening and distinguishing them from other potential outcomes. The practical aspects of ensuring that once a crystal is identified it can then be positioned in the X-ray beam for data collection are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Calero
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Aina E Cohen
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Joseph R Luft
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, 700 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Janet Newman
- CSIRO Collaborative Crystallisation Centre, 343 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Edward H Snell
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, 700 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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