1
|
Gotthard G, Flores-Ibarra A, Carrillo M, Kepa MW, Mason TJ, Stegmann DP, Olasz B, Pachota M, Dworkowski F, Ozerov D, Pedrini BF, Padeste C, Beale JH, Nogly P. Fixed-target pump-probe SFX: eliminating the scourge of light contamination. IUCRJ 2024; 11:749-761. [PMID: 38980142 PMCID: PMC11364036 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252524005591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) light sources have enabled the rapid growth of time-resolved structural experiments, which provide crucial information on the function of macromolecules and their mechanisms. Here, the aim was to commission the SwissMX fixed-target sample-delivery system at the SwissFEL Cristallina experimental station using the PSI-developed micro-structured polymer (MISP) chip for pump-probe time-resolved experiments. To characterize the system, crystals of the light-sensitive protein light-oxygen-voltage domain 1 (LOV1) from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii were used. Using different experimental settings, the accidental illumination, referred to as light contamination, of crystals mounted in wells adjacent to those illuminated by the pump laser was examined. It was crucial to control the light scattering from and through the solid supports otherwise significant contamination occurred. However, the results here show that the opaque MISP chips are suitable for defined pump-probe studies of a light-sensitive protein. The experiment also probed the sub-millisecond structural dynamics of LOV1 and indicated that at Δt = 10 µs a covalent thioether bond is established between reactive Cys57 and its flavin mononucleotide cofactor. This experiment validates the crystals to be suitable for in-depth follow-up studies of this still poorly understood signal-transduction mechanism. Importantly, the fixed-target delivery system also permitted a tenfold reduction in protein sample consumption compared with the more common high-viscosity extrusion-based delivery system. This development creates the prospect of an increase in XFEL project throughput for the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Gotthard
- Institute of Molecular Biology and BiophysicsETH ZurichRämistrasse 1018092ZürichSwitzerland
- Laboratory of Biomolecular ResearchPaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
- Swiss Light SourcePaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - Andrea Flores-Ibarra
- Dioscuri Center for Structural Dynamics of Receptors, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and BiotechnologyJagiellonian UniversityGronostajowa 730-380KrakowPoland
| | - Melissa Carrillo
- Laboratory of Nanoscale BiologyPaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - Michal W. Kepa
- Laboratory of Biomolecular ResearchPaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - Thomas J. Mason
- Laboratory of Biomolecular ResearchPaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
- Swiss Light SourcePaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - Dennis P. Stegmann
- Swiss Light SourcePaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - Bence Olasz
- Dioscuri Center for Structural Dynamics of Receptors, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and BiotechnologyJagiellonian UniversityGronostajowa 730-380KrakowPoland
| | - Magdalena Pachota
- Dioscuri Center for Structural Dynamics of Receptors, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and BiotechnologyJagiellonian UniversityGronostajowa 730-380KrakowPoland
| | - Florian Dworkowski
- Laboratory for Synchrotron Radiation and FemtochemistryPaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - Dmitry Ozerov
- Science IT Infrastructure and ServicesPaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - Bill F. Pedrini
- Laboratory for X-ray Nanoscience and TechnologiesPaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - Celestino Padeste
- Laboratory of Nanoscale BiologyPaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - John H. Beale
- Swiss Light SourcePaul Scherrer InstitutForschungsstrasse 1115232VilligenSwitzerland
| | - Przemyslaw Nogly
- Institute of Molecular Biology and BiophysicsETH ZurichRämistrasse 1018092ZürichSwitzerland
- Dioscuri Center for Structural Dynamics of Receptors, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and BiotechnologyJagiellonian UniversityGronostajowa 730-380KrakowPoland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dunge A, Phan C, Uwangue O, Bjelcic M, Gunnarsson J, Wehlander G, Käck H, Brändén G. Exploring serial crystallography for drug discovery. IUCRJ 2024; 11:831-842. [PMID: 39072424 PMCID: PMC11364032 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252524006134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Structure-based drug design is highly dependent on the availability of structures of the protein of interest in complex with lead compounds. Ideally, this information can be used to guide the chemical optimization of a compound into a pharmaceutical drug candidate. A limitation of the main structural method used today - conventional X-ray crystallography - is that it only provides structural information about the protein complex in its frozen state. Serial crystallography is a relatively new approach that offers the possibility to study protein structures at room temperature (RT). Here, we explore the use of serial crystallography to determine the structures of the pharmaceutical target, soluble epoxide hydrolase. We introduce a new method to screen for optimal microcrystallization conditions suitable for use in serial crystallography and present a number of RT ligand-bound structures of our target protein. From a comparison between the RT structural data and previously published cryo-temperature structures, we describe an example of a temperature-dependent difference in the ligand-binding mode and observe that flexible loops are better resolved at RT. Finally, we discuss the current limitations and potential future advances of serial crystallography for use within pharmaceutical drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A. Dunge
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaPepparedsleden 1SE-431 83GothenburgSweden
| | - C. Phan
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaPepparedsleden 1SE-431 83GothenburgSweden
| | - O. Uwangue
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
| | - M. Bjelcic
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
- MAX IV LaboratoryLund UniversityPO Box 118SE-221 00LundSweden
| | - J. Gunnarsson
- Discovery Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaPepparedsleden 1SE-431 83GothenburgSweden
| | - G. Wehlander
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
| | - H. Käck
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaPepparedsleden 1SE-431 83GothenburgSweden
| | - G. Brändén
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Prester A, Perbandt M, Galchenkova M, Oberthuer D, Werner N, Henkel A, Maracke J, Yefanov O, Hakanpää J, Pompidor G, Meyer J, Chapman H, Aepfelbacher M, Hinrichs W, Rohde H, Betzel C. Time-resolved crystallography of boric acid binding to the active site serine of the β-lactamase CTX-M-14 and subsequent 1,2-diol esterification. Commun Chem 2024; 7:152. [PMID: 38969718 PMCID: PMC11226702 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-024-01236-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance represent a growing threat to public health. Of particular concern is the appearance of β-lactamases, which are capable to hydrolyze and inactivate the most important class of antibiotics, the β-lactams. Effective β-lactamase inhibitors and mechanistic insights into their action are central in overcoming this type of resistance, and in this context boronate-based β-lactamase inhibitors were just recently approved to treat multidrug-resistant bacteria. Using boric acid as a simplified inhibitor model, time-resolved serial crystallography was employed to obtain mechanistic insights into binding to the active site serine of β-lactamase CTX-M-14, identifying a reaction time frame of 80-100 ms. In a next step, the subsequent 1,2-diol boric ester formation with glycerol in the active site was monitored proceeding in a time frame of 100-150 ms. Furthermore, the displacement of the crucial anion in the active site of the β-lactamase was verified as an essential part of the binding mechanism of substrates and inhibitors. In total, 22 datasets of β-lactamase intermediate complexes with high spatial resolution of 1.40-2.04 Å and high temporal resolution range of 50-10,000 ms were obtained, allowing a detailed analysis of the studied processes. Mechanistic details captured here contribute to the understanding of molecular processes and their time frames in enzymatic reactions. Moreover, we could demonstrate that time-resolved crystallography can serve as an additional tool for identifying and investigating enzymatic reactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Prester
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf UKE, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Biochemistry and Signal Transduction, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf UKE, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Perbandt
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Nadine Werner
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Centre for Integrative Biology, Department of Integrated Structural Biology, Institute of Genetics, Molecular and Cellular Biology, IGBMC, Illkirch, France
| | | | - Julia Maracke
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science CFEL, DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Jan Meyer
- Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Henry Chapman
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science CFEL, DESY, Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging CUI, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Physics, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Aepfelbacher
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf UKE, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Winfried Hinrichs
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Holger Rohde
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf UKE, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Christian Betzel
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging CUI, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Baxter J, Hutchison CD, Fadini A, Maghlaoui K, Cordon-Preciado V, Morgan RML, Agthe M, Horrell S, Tellkamp F, Mehrabi P, Pfeifer Y, Müller-Werkmeister HM, von Stetten D, Pearson AR, van Thor JJ. Power Density Titration of Reversible Photoisomerization of a Fluorescent Protein Chromophore in the Presence of Thermally Driven Barrier Crossing Shown by Quantitative Millisecond Serial Synchrotron X-ray Crystallography. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:16394-16403. [PMID: 38848551 PMCID: PMC11191680 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c12883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
We present millisecond quantitative serial X-ray crystallography at 1.7 Å resolution demonstrating precise optical control of reversible population transfer from Trans-Cis and Cis-Trans photoisomerization of a reversibly switchable fluorescent protein, rsKiiro. Quantitative results from the analysis of electron density differences, extrapolated structure factors, and occupancy refinements are shown to correspond to optical measurements of photoinduced population transfer and have sensitivity to a few percent in concentration differences. Millisecond time-resolved concentration differences are precisely and reversibly controlled through intense continuous wave laser illuminations at 405 and 473 nm for the Trans-to-Cis and Cis-to-Trans reactions, respectively, while the X-ray crystallographic measurement and laser illumination of the metastable Trans chromophore conformation causes partial thermally driven reconversion across a 91.5 kJ/mol thermal barrier from which a temperature jump between 112 and 128 K is extracted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James
M. Baxter
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | | | - Alisia Fadini
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Karim Maghlaoui
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | | | - R. Marc L. Morgan
- Center
for Structural Biology, Imperial College
London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Michael Agthe
- European
Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Sam Horrell
- Department
of Physics, Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Institute for
Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, University
of Hamburg, Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Friedjof Tellkamp
- Scientific
Support Unit Machine Physics, Max-Planck-Institute
for Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Hamburg 22761, Germany
| | - Pedram Mehrabi
- Max
Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, CFEL, Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Yannik Pfeifer
- Institute
of Chemistry—Physical Chemistry, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14469, Germany
| | | | - David von Stetten
- European
Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Arwen R. Pearson
- Institute
for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics & The Hamburg Centre
for Ultrafast Imaging, HARBOR, Universität
Hamburg, Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Jasper J. van Thor
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bjelčić M, Aurelius O, Nan J, Neutze R, Ursby T. Room-temperature serial synchrotron crystallography structure of Spinacia oleracea RuBisCO. Acta Crystallogr F Struct Biol Commun 2024; 80:117-124. [PMID: 38809540 PMCID: PMC11189101 DOI: 10.1107/s2053230x24004643] [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: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCO) is the enzyme responsible for the first step of carbon dioxide (CO2) fixation in plants, which proceeds via the carboxylation of ribulose 1,5-biphosphate. Because of the enormous importance of this reaction in agriculture and the environment, there is considerable interest in the mechanism of fixation of CO2 by RuBisCO. Here, a serial synchrotron crystallography structure of spinach RuBisCO is reported at 2.3 Å resolution. This structure is consistent with earlier single-crystal X-ray structures of this enzyme and the results are a good starting point for a further push towards time-resolved serial synchrotron crystallography in order to better understand the mechanism of the reaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Bjelčić
- MAX IV Laboratory, Lund UniversityPO Box 118221 00LundSweden
| | - Oskar Aurelius
- MAX IV Laboratory, Lund UniversityPO Box 118221 00LundSweden
| | - Jie Nan
- MAX IV Laboratory, Lund UniversityPO Box 118221 00LundSweden
| | - Richard Neutze
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgMedicinaregatan 9C413 90GothenburgSweden
| | - Thomas Ursby
- MAX IV Laboratory, Lund UniversityPO Box 118221 00LundSweden
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Purohit V, Steussy CN, Rosales AR, Critchelow CJ, Schmidt T, Helquist P, Wiest O, Mesecar A, Cohen AE, Stauffacher CV. pH-dependent reaction triggering in PmHMGR crystals for time-resolved crystallography. Biophys J 2024; 123:622-637. [PMID: 38327055 PMCID: PMC10938121 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Serial crystallography and time-resolved data collection can readily be employed to investigate the catalytic mechanism of Pseudomonas mevalonii 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl (HMG)-coenzyme-A (CoA) reductase (PmHMGR) by changing the environmental conditions in the crystal and so manipulating the reaction rate. This enzyme uses a complex mechanism to convert mevalonate to HMG-CoA using the co-substrate CoA and cofactor NAD+. The multi-step reaction mechanism involves an exchange of bound NAD+ and large conformational changes by a 50-residue subdomain. The enzymatic reaction can be run in both forward and reverse directions in solution and is catalytically active in the crystal for multiple reaction steps. Initially, the enzyme was found to be inactive in the crystal starting with bound mevalonate, CoA, and NAD+. To observe the reaction from this direction, we examined the effects of crystallization buffer constituents and pH on enzyme turnover, discovering a strong inhibition in the crystallization buffer and a controllable increase in enzyme turnover as a function of pH. The inhibition is dependent on ionic concentration of the crystallization precipitant ammonium sulfate but independent of its ionic composition. Crystallographic studies show that the observed inhibition only affects the oxidation of mevalonate but not the subsequent reactions of the intermediate mevaldehyde. Calculations of the pKa values for the enzyme active site residues suggest that the effect of pH on turnover is due to the changing protonation state of His381. We have now exploited the changes in ionic inhibition in combination with the pH-dependent increase in turnover as a novel approach for triggering the PmHMGR reaction in crystals and capturing information about its intermediate states along the reaction pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vatsal Purohit
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Calvin N Steussy
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Anthony R Rosales
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana
| | | | - Tim Schmidt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Paul Helquist
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana
| | - Olaf Wiest
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana
| | - Andrew Mesecar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Aina E Cohen
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California
| | - Cynthia V Stauffacher
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Stubbs J, Hornsey T, Hanrahan N, Esteban LB, Bolton R, Malý M, Basu S, Orlans J, de Sanctis D, Shim JU, Shaw Stewart PD, Orville AM, Tews I, West J. Droplet microfluidics for time-resolved serial crystallography. IUCRJ 2024; 11:237-248. [PMID: 38446456 PMCID: PMC10916287 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252524001799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Serial crystallography requires large numbers of microcrystals and robust strategies to rapidly apply substrates to initiate reactions in time-resolved studies. Here, we report the use of droplet miniaturization for the controlled production of uniform crystals, providing an avenue for controlled substrate addition and synchronous reaction initiation. The approach was evaluated using two enzymatic systems, yielding 3 µm crystals of lysozyme and 2 µm crystals of Pdx1, an Arabidopsis enzyme involved in vitamin B6 biosynthesis. A seeding strategy was used to overcome the improbability of Pdx1 nucleation occurring with diminishing droplet volumes. Convection within droplets was exploited for rapid crystal mixing with ligands. Mixing times of <2 ms were achieved. Droplet microfluidics for crystal size engineering and rapid micromixing can be utilized to advance time-resolved serial crystallography.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jack Stubbs
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Theo Hornsey
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Niall Hanrahan
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Luis Blay Esteban
- Universitat Carlemany, Avenida Verge de Canolich, 47, Sant Julia de Loria, Principat d’Andorra AD600, Spain
| | - Rachel Bolton
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Malý
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Shibom Basu
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Grenoble Outstation, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, CS 90181, Grenoble 38042, Cedex 9, France
| | - Julien Orlans
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble 38042, Cedex 9, France
| | - Daniele de Sanctis
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble 38042, Cedex 9, France
| | - Jung-uk Shim
- Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | | | - Allen M. Orville
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
- Research Complex at Harwell, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0FA, United Kingdom
| | - Ivo Tews
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan West
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Berkes A, Kleine-Doepke S, Leimkohl JP, Schikora H, Mehrabi P, Tellkamp F, Schulz EC. An electropneumatic cleaning device for piezo-actuator-driven picolitre-droplet dispensers. J Appl Crystallogr 2024; 57:209-214. [PMID: 38322725 PMCID: PMC10840313 DOI: 10.1107/s1600576723009573] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, we introduced the liquid application method for time-resolved analyses (LAMA). The time-consuming cleaning cycles required for the substrate solution exchange and storage of the sensitive droplet-dispenser nozzles present practical challenges. In this work, a dispenser cleaning system for the semi-automated cleaning of the piezo-actuator-driven picolitre-droplet dispensers required for LAMA is introduced to streamline typical workflows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Berkes
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Kleine-Doepke
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Hendrik Schikora
- Max-Planck-Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Pedram Mehrabi
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Max-Planck-Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Friedjof Tellkamp
- Max-Planck-Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eike C. Schulz
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Max-Planck-Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Hamburg, Germany
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Carrillo M, Mason TJ, Karpik A, Martiel I, Kepa MW, McAuley KE, Beale JH, Padeste C. Micro-structured polymer fixed targets for serial crystallography at synchrotrons and XFELs. IUCRJ 2023; 10:678-693. [PMID: 37727961 PMCID: PMC10619457 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252523007595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Fixed targets are a popular form of sample-delivery system used in serial crystallography at synchrotron and X-ray free-electron laser sources. They offer a wide range of sample-preparation options and are generally easy to use. The supports are typically made from silicon, quartz or polymer. Of these, currently, only silicon offers the ability to perform an aperture-aligned data collection where crystals are loaded into cavities in precise locations and sequentially rastered through, in step with the X-ray pulses. The polymer-based fixed targets have lacked the precision fabrication to enable this data-collection strategy and have been limited to directed-raster scans with crystals randomly distributed across the polymer surface. Here, the fabrication and first results from a new polymer-based fixed target, the micro-structured polymer fixed targets (MISP chips), are presented. MISP chips, like those made from silicon, have a precise array of cavities and fiducial markers. They consist of a structured polymer membrane and a stabilization frame. Crystals can be loaded into the cavities and the excess crystallization solution removed through apertures at their base. The fiducial markers allow for a rapid calculation of the aperture locations. The chips have a low X-ray background and, since they are optically transparent, also allow for an a priori analysis of crystal locations. This location mapping could, ultimately, optimize hit rates towards 100%. A black version of the MISP chip was produced to reduce light contamination for optical-pump/X-ray probe experiments. A study of the loading properties of the chips reveals that these types of fixed targets are best optimized for crystals of the order of 25 µm, but quality data can be collected from crystals as small as 5 µm. With the development of these chips, it has been proved that polymer-based fixed targets can be made with the precision required for aperture-alignment-based data-collection strategies. Further work can now be directed towards more cost-effective mass fabrication to make their use more sustainable for serial crystallography facilities and users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Carrillo
- Paul Scherrer Institut, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- Swiss Nanoscience Institute, Klingelbergstrasse 82, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas J. Mason
- Paul Scherrer Institut, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Agnieszka Karpik
- Paul Scherrer Institut, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
- Institute of Polymer Nanotechnology (INKA), FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Engineering, Klosterzelgstrasse 2, 5210 Windisch, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle Martiel
- Paul Scherrer Institut, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Michal W. Kepa
- Paul Scherrer Institut, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | | | - John H. Beale
- Paul Scherrer Institut, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Celestino Padeste
- Paul Scherrer Institut, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Shoeman RL, Hartmann E, Schlichting I. Growing and making nano- and microcrystals. Nat Protoc 2023; 18:854-882. [PMID: 36451055 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-022-00777-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Thanks to recent technological advances in X-ray and micro-electron diffraction and solid-state NMR, structural information can be obtained by using much smaller crystals. Thus, microcrystals have become a valuable commodity rather than a mere stepping stone toward obtaining macroscopic crystals. Microcrystals are particularly useful for structure determination using serial data collection approaches at synchrotrons and X-ray free-electron lasers. The latter's enormous peak brilliance and short X-ray pulse duration mean that structural information can be obtained before the effects of radiation damage are seen; these properties also facilitate time-resolved crystallography. To establish defined reaction initiation conditions, microcrystals with a desired and narrow size distribution are critical. Here, we describe milling and seeding techniques as well as filtration approaches for the reproducible and size-adjustable preparation of homogeneous nano- and microcrystals. Nanocrystals and crystal seeds can be obtained by milling using zirconium beads and the BeadBug homogenizer; fragmentation of large crystals yields micro- or nanocrystals by flowing crystals through stainless steel filters by using an HPLC pump. The approaches can be scaled to generate micro- to milliliter quantities of microcrystals, starting from macroscopic crystals. The procedure typically takes 3-5 d, including the time required to grow the microcrystals.
Collapse
|
11
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sharma S, Ebrahim A, Keedy DA. Room-temperature serial synchrotron crystallography of the human phosphatase PTP1B. Acta Crystallogr F Struct Biol Commun 2023; 79:23-30. [PMID: 36598353 PMCID: PMC9813971 DOI: 10.1107/s2053230x22011645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Room-temperature X-ray crystallography provides unique insights into protein conformational heterogeneity, but obtaining sufficiently large protein crystals is a common hurdle. Serial synchrotron crystallography (SSX) helps to address this hurdle by allowing the use of many medium- to small-sized crystals. Here, a recently introduced serial sample-support chip system has been used to obtain the first SSX structure of a human phosphatase, specifically protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) in the unliganded (apo) state. In previous apo room-temperature structures, the active site and allosteric sites adopted alternate conformations, including open and closed conformations of the active-site WPD loop and of a distal allosteric site. By contrast, in our SSX structure the active site is best fitted with a single conformation, but the distal allosteric site is best fitted with alternate conformations. This observation argues for additional nuance in interpreting the nature of allosteric coupling in this protein. Overall, our results illustrate the promise of serial methods for room-temperature crystallography, as well as future avant-garde crystallography experiments, for PTP1B and other proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Sharma
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY 10031, USA
- PhD Program in Biology, CUNY Graduate Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Ali Ebrahim
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY 10031, USA
| | - Daniel A. Keedy
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY 10031, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, City College of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
- PhD Programs in Biochemistry, Biology and Chemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Thorne RE. Determining biomolecular structures near room temperature using X-ray crystallography: concepts, methods and future optimization. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2023; 79:78-94. [PMID: 36601809 PMCID: PMC9815097 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798322011652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
For roughly two decades, cryocrystallography has been the overwhelmingly dominant method for determining high-resolution biomolecular structures. Competition from single-particle cryo-electron microscopy and micro-electron diffraction, increased interest in functionally relevant information that may be missing or corrupted in structures determined at cryogenic temperature, and interest in time-resolved studies of the biomolecular response to chemical and optical stimuli have driven renewed interest in data collection at room temperature and, more generally, at temperatures from the protein-solvent glass transition near 200 K to ∼350 K. Fischer has recently reviewed practical methods for room-temperature data collection and analysis [Fischer (2021), Q. Rev. Biophys. 54, e1]. Here, the key advantages and physical principles of, and methods for, crystallographic data collection at noncryogenic temperatures and some factors relevant to interpreting the resulting data are discussed. For room-temperature data collection to realize its potential within the structural biology toolkit, streamlined and standardized methods for delivering crystals prepared in the home laboratory to the synchrotron and for automated handling and data collection, similar to those for cryocrystallography, should be implemented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert E. Thorne
- Physics Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- MiTeGen LLC, PO Box 3867, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Vilela-Alves G, Manuel RR, Oliveira AR, Pereira IC, Romão MJ, Mota C. Tracking W-Formate Dehydrogenase Structural Changes During Catalysis and Enzyme Reoxidation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010476. [PMID: 36613918 PMCID: PMC9820355 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Metal-dependent formate dehydrogenases (Fdh) catalyze the reversible conversion of CO2 to formate, with unrivalled efficiency and selectivity. However, the key catalytic aspects of these enzymes remain unknown, preventing us from fully benefiting from their capabilities in terms of biotechnological applications. Here, we report a time-resolved characterization by X-ray crystallography of the Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough SeCys/W-Fdh during formate oxidation. The results allowed us to model five different intermediate structures and to chronologically map the changes occurring during enzyme reduction. Formate molecules were assigned for the first time to populate the catalytic pocket of a Fdh. Finally, the redox reversibility of DvFdhAB in crystals was confirmed by reduction and reoxidation structural studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Vilela-Alves
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO, Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Rita Rebelo Manuel
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Oliveira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Inês Cardoso Pereira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Maria João Romão
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO, Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Cristiano Mota
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO, Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wilamowski M, Sherrell DA, Kim Y, Lavens A, Henning RW, Lazarski K, Shigemoto A, Endres M, Maltseva N, Babnigg G, Burdette SC, Srajer V, Joachimiak A. Time-resolved β-lactam cleavage by L1 metallo-β-lactamase. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7379. [PMID: 36450742 PMCID: PMC9712583 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35029-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Serial x-ray crystallography can uncover binding events, and subsequent chemical conversions occurring during enzymatic reaction. Here, we reveal the structure, binding and cleavage of moxalactam antibiotic bound to L1 metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Using time-resolved serial synchrotron crystallography, we show the time course of β-lactam hydrolysis and determine ten snapshots (20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 150, 300, 500, 2000 and 4000 ms) at 2.20 Å resolution. The reaction is initiated by laser pulse releasing Zn2+ ions from a UV-labile photocage. Two metal ions bind to the active site, followed by binding of moxalactam and the intact β-lactam ring is observed for 100 ms after photolysis. Cleavage of β-lactam is detected at 150 ms and the ligand is significantly displaced. The reaction product adjusts its conformation reaching steady state at 2000 ms corresponding to the relaxed state of the enzyme. Only small changes are observed in the positions of Zn2+ ions and the active site residues. Mechanistic details captured here can be generalized to other MBLs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Wilamowski
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60667, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology of Jagiellonian University, 30387, Krakow, Poland
| | - D A Sherrell
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, 60439, USA
| | - Y Kim
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60667, USA
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, 60439, USA
| | - A Lavens
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, 60439, USA
| | - R W Henning
- Center for Advanced Radiation Sources, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - K Lazarski
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, 60439, USA
| | - A Shigemoto
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - M Endres
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60667, USA
| | - N Maltseva
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60667, USA
| | - G Babnigg
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60667, USA
| | - S C Burdette
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - V Srajer
- Center for Advanced Radiation Sources, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - A Joachimiak
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60667, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, 60439, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sherrell DA, Lavens A, Wilamowski M, Kim Y, Chard R, Lazarski K, Rosenbaum G, Vescovi R, Johnson JL, Akins C, Chang C, Michalska K, Babnigg G, Foster I, Joachimiak A. Fixed-target serial crystallography at the Structural Biology Center. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2022; 29:1141-1151. [PMID: 36073872 PMCID: PMC9455217 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577522007895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Serial synchrotron crystallography enables the study of protein structures under physiological temperature and reduced radiation damage by collection of data from thousands of crystals. The Structural Biology Center at Sector 19 of the Advanced Photon Source has implemented a fixed-target approach with a new 3D-printed mesh-holder optimized for sample handling. The holder immobilizes a crystal suspension or droplet emulsion on a nylon mesh, trapping and sealing a near-monolayer of crystals in its mother liquor between two thin Mylar films. Data can be rapidly collected in scan mode and analyzed in near real-time using piezoelectric linear stages assembled in an XYZ arrangement, controlled with a graphical user interface and analyzed using a high-performance computing pipeline. Here, the system was applied to two β-lactamases: a class D serine β-lactamase from Chitinophaga pinensis DSM 2588 and L1 metallo-β-lactamase from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia K279a.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darren A. Sherrell
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Alex Lavens
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Mateusz Wilamowski
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60667, USA
| | - Youngchang Kim
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60667, USA
| | - Ryan Chard
- Data Science and Learning Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Krzysztof Lazarski
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Gerold Rosenbaum
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Rafael Vescovi
- Data Science and Learning Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Jessica L. Johnson
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Chase Akins
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Changsoo Chang
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60667, USA
| | - Karolina Michalska
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60667, USA
| | - Gyorgy Babnigg
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Ian Foster
- Data Science and Learning Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Andrzej Joachimiak
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
- Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60667, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60367, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Barends TR, Stauch B, Cherezov V, Schlichting I. Serial femtosecond crystallography. NATURE REVIEWS. METHODS PRIMERS 2022; 2:59. [PMID: 36643971 PMCID: PMC9833121 DOI: 10.1038/s43586-022-00141-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of X-ray Free Electron Lasers (XFELs), new, high-throughput serial crystallography techniques for macromolecular structure determination have emerged. Serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) and related methods provide possibilities beyond canonical, single-crystal rotation crystallography by mitigating radiation damage and allowing time-resolved studies with unprecedented temporal resolution. This primer aims to assist structural biology groups with little or no experience in serial crystallography planning and carrying out a successful SFX experiment. It discusses the background of serial crystallography and its possibilities. Microcrystal growth and characterization methods are discussed, alongside techniques for sample delivery and data processing. Moreover, it gives practical tips for preparing an experiment, what to consider and do during a beamtime and how to conduct the final data analysis. Finally, the Primer looks at various applications of SFX, including structure determination of membrane proteins, investigation of radiation damage-prone systems and time-resolved studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas R.M. Barends
- Department for Biological Mechanisms, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Stauch
- Department of Chemistry, The Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vadim Cherezov
- Department of Chemistry, The Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ilme Schlichting
- Department for Biological Mechanisms, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany,
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Babnigg G, Sherrell D, Kim Y, Johnson JL, Nocek B, Tan K, Axford D, Li H, Bigelow L, Welk L, Endres M, Owen RL, Joachimiak A. Data collection from crystals grown in microfluidic droplets. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2022; 78:997-1009. [PMID: 35916224 PMCID: PMC9344473 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798322004661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein crystals grown in microfluidic droplets have been shown to be an effective and robust platform for storage, transport and serial crystallography data collection with a minimal impact on diffraction quality. Single macromolecular microcrystals grown in nanolitre-sized droplets allow the very efficient use of protein samples and can produce large quantities of high-quality samples for data collection. However, there are challenges not only in growing crystals in microfluidic droplets, but also in delivering the droplets into X-ray beams, including the physical arrangement, beamline and timing constraints and ease of use. Here, the crystallization of two human gut microbial hydrolases in microfluidic droplets is described: a sample-transport and data-collection approach that is inexpensive, is convenient, requires small amounts of protein and is forgiving. It is shown that crystals can be grown in 50-500 pl droplets when the crystallization conditions are compatible with the droplet environment. Local and remote data-collection methods are described and it is shown that crystals grown in microfluidics droplets and housed as an emulsion in an Eppendorf tube can be shipped from the US to the UK using a FedEx envelope, and data can be collected successfully. Details of how crystals were delivered to the X-ray beam by depositing an emulsion of droplets onto a silicon fixed-target serial device are provided. After three months of storage at 4°C, the crystals endured and diffracted well, showing only a slight decrease in diffracting power, demonstrating a suitable way to grow crystals, and to store and collect the droplets with crystals for data collection. This sample-delivery and data-collection strategy allows crystal droplets to be shipped and set aside until beamtime is available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gyorgy Babnigg
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Darren Sherrell
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Youngchang Kim
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Jessica L. Johnson
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Boguslaw Nocek
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Kemin Tan
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Danny Axford
- Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Diamond Light Source, Fermi Avenue, Didcot OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Hui Li
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Lance Bigelow
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Lukas Welk
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Michael Endres
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Robin L. Owen
- Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Diamond Light Source, Fermi Avenue, Didcot OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Andrzej Joachimiak
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60367, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Martin-Garcia JM, Botha S, Hu H, Jernigan R, Castellví A, Lisova S, Gil F, Calisto B, Crespo I, Roy-Chowdhury S, Grieco A, Ketawala G, Weierstall U, Spence J, Fromme P, Zatsepin N, Boer DR, Carpena X. Serial macromolecular crystallography at ALBA Synchrotron Light Source. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2022; 29:896-907. [PMID: 35511023 PMCID: PMC9070724 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577522002508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The increase in successful adaptations of serial crystallography at synchrotron radiation sources continues. To date, the number of serial synchrotron crystallography (SSX) experiments has grown exponentially, with over 40 experiments reported so far. In this work, we report the first SSX experiments with viscous jets conducted at ALBA beamline BL13-XALOC. Small crystals (15-30 µm) of five soluble proteins (lysozyme, proteinase K, phycocyanin, insulin and α-spectrin-SH3 domain) were suspended in lipidic cubic phase (LCP) and delivered to the X-ray beam with a high-viscosity injector developed at Arizona State University. Complete data sets were collected from all proteins and their high-resolution structures determined. The high quality of the diffraction data collected from all five samples, and the lack of specific radiation damage in the structures obtained in this study, confirm that the current capabilities at the beamline enables atomic resolution determination of protein structures from microcrystals as small as 15 µm using viscous jets at room temperature. Thus, BL13-XALOC can provide a feasible alternative to X-ray free-electron lasers when determining snapshots of macromolecular structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose M. Martin-Garcia
- Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Department of Crystallography and Structural Biology, Institute of Physical Chemistry Rocasolano, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sabine Botha
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Rebecca Jernigan
- Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Albert Castellví
- Molecular Biology Institute of Barcelona, CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Stella Lisova
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Fernando Gil
- ALBA Synchrotron, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Isidro Crespo
- ALBA Synchrotron, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Shatabdi Roy-Chowdhury
- Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Alice Grieco
- Department of Crystallography and Structural Biology, Institute of Physical Chemistry Rocasolano, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gihan Ketawala
- Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Uwe Weierstall
- Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - John Spence
- Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Petra Fromme
- Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Nadia Zatsepin
- Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Advance Molecular Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular ScienceImaging, Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Xavi Carpena
- ALBA Synchrotron, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Nam KH. Beef tallow injection matrix for serial crystallography. Sci Rep 2022; 12:694. [PMID: 35027663 PMCID: PMC8758675 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04714-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Serial crystallography (SX) enables the visualization of the time-resolved molecular dynamics of macromolecular structures at room temperature while minimizing radiation damage. In SX experiments, the delivery of a large number of crystals into an X-ray interaction point in a serial and stable manner is key. Sample delivery using viscous medium maintains the stable injection stream at low flow rates, markedly reducing sample consumption compared with that of a liquid jet injector and is widely applied in SX experiments with low repetition rates. As the sample properties and experimental environment can affect the stability of the injection stream of a viscous medium, it is important to develop sample delivery media with various characteristics to optimize the experimental environment. In this study, a beef tallow injection matrix possessing a higher melting temperature than previously reported fat-based shortening and lard media was introduced as a sample delivery medium and applied to SX. Beef tallow was prepared by heat treating fats from cattle, followed by the removal of soluble impurities from the extract by phase separation. Beef tallow exhibited a very stable injection stream at room temperature and a flow rate of < 10 nL/min. The room-temperature structures of lysozyme and glucose isomerase embedded in beef tallow were successfully determined at 1.55 and 1.60 Å, respectively. The background scattering of beef tallow was higher than that of previously reported fat-based shortening and lard media but negligible for data processing. In conclusion, the beef tallow matrix can be employed for sample delivery in SX experiments conducted at temperatures exceeding room temperature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ki Hyun Nam
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, Korea. .,POSTECH Biotech Center, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Schulz EC, Yorke BA, Pearson AR, Mehrabi P. Best practices for time-resolved serial synchrotron crystallography. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2022; 78:14-29. [PMID: 34981758 PMCID: PMC8725164 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798321011621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
With recent developments in X-ray sources, instrumentation and data-analysis tools, time-resolved crystallographic experiments, which were originally the preserve of a few expert groups, are becoming simpler and can be carried out at more radiation sources, and are thus increasingly accessible to a growing user base. However, these experiments are just that: discrete experiments, not just `data collections'. As such, careful planning and consideration of potential pitfalls is required to enable a successful experiment. Here, some of the key factors that should be considered during the planning and execution of a time-resolved structural study are outlined, with a particular focus on synchrotron-based experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eike C. Schulz
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Universität Hamburg, HARBOR, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Briony A. Yorke
- School of Chemistry and Bioscience, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, United Kingdom
| | - Arwen R. Pearson
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Universität Hamburg, HARBOR, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging, Universität Hamburg, HARBOR, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Pedram Mehrabi
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Universität Hamburg, HARBOR, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Axford D, Judge PJ, Bada Juarez JF, Kwan TOC, Birch J, Vinals J, Watts A, Moraes I. Two states of a light-sensitive membrane protein captured at room temperature using thin-film sample mounts. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2022; 78:52-58. [PMID: 34981761 PMCID: PMC8725165 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798321011220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Room-temperature diffraction methods are highly desirable for dynamic studies of biological macromolecules, since they allow high-resolution structural data to be collected as proteins undergo conformational changes. For crystals grown in lipidic cubic phase (LCP), an extruder is commonly used to pass a stream of microcrystals through the X-ray beam; however, the sample quantities required for this method may be difficult to produce for many membrane proteins. A more sample-efficient environment was created using two layers of low X-ray transmittance polymer films to mount crystals of the archaerhodopsin-3 (AR3) photoreceptor and room-temperature diffraction data were acquired. By using transparent and opaque polymer films, two structures, one corresponding to the desensitized, dark-adapted (DA) state and the other to the ground or light-adapted (LA) state, were solved to better than 1.9 Å resolution. All of the key structural features of AR3 were resolved, including the retinal chromophore, which is present as the 13-cis isomer in the DA state and as the all-trans isomer in the LA state. The film-sandwich sample environment enables diffraction data to be recorded at room temperature in both illuminated and dark conditions, which more closely approximate those in vivo. This simple approach is applicable to a wide range of membrane proteins crystallized in LCP and light-sensitive samples in general at synchrotron and laboratory X-ray sources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danny Axford
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Peter J. Judge
- Biochemistry Department, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Juan F. Bada Juarez
- Biochemistry Department, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Tristan O. C. Kwan
- National Physical Laboratory, Hampton Road, Teddington, London, United Kingdom
| | - James Birch
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
- Research Complex at Harwell, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot OX11 0FA, United Kingdom
| | - Javier Vinals
- Biochemistry Department, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony Watts
- Biochemistry Department, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel Moraes
- National Physical Laboratory, Hampton Road, Teddington, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Martiel I, Beale JH, Karpik A, Huang CY, Vera L, Olieric N, Wranik M, Tsai CJ, Mühle J, Aurelius O, John J, Högbom M, Wang M, Marsh M, Padeste C. Versatile microporous polymer-based supports for serial macromolecular crystallography. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2021; 77:1153-1167. [PMID: 34473086 PMCID: PMC8411977 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798321007324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Serial data collection has emerged as a major tool for data collection at state-of-the-art light sources, such as microfocus beamlines at synchrotrons and X-ray free-electron lasers. Challenging targets, characterized by small crystal sizes, weak diffraction and stringent dose limits, benefit most from these methods. Here, the use of a thin support made of a polymer-based membrane for performing serial data collection or screening experiments is demonstrated. It is shown that these supports are suitable for a wide range of protein crystals suspended in liquids. The supports have also proved to be applicable to challenging cases such as membrane proteins growing in the sponge phase. The sample-deposition method is simple and robust, as well as flexible and adaptable to a variety of cases. It results in an optimally thin specimen providing low background while maintaining minute amounts of mother liquor around the crystals. The 2 × 2 mm area enables the deposition of up to several microlitres of liquid. Imaging and visualization of the crystals are straightforward on the highly transparent membrane. Thanks to their affordable fabrication, these supports have the potential to become an attractive option for serial experiments at synchrotrons and free-electron lasers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Martiel
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - John H. Beale
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Agnieszka Karpik
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
- Institute of Polymer Nanotechnology (INKA), FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, 5210 Windisch, Switzerland
| | - Chia-Ying Huang
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Laura Vera
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Natacha Olieric
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Maximilian Wranik
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Ching-Ju Tsai
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Mühle
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Oskar Aurelius
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
- MAX IV Laboratory, Lund University, Fotongatan 2, 224 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Juliane John
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Högbom
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Meitian Wang
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - May Marsh
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Celestino Padeste
- Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Brändén G, Neutze R. Advances and challenges in time-resolved macromolecular crystallography. Science 2021; 373:373/6558/eaba0954. [PMID: 34446579 DOI: 10.1126/science.aba0954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Conformational changes within biological macromolecules control a vast array of chemical reactions in living cells. Time-resolved crystallography can reveal time-dependent structural changes that occur within protein crystals, yielding chemical insights in unparalleled detail. Serial crystallography approaches developed at x-ray free-electron lasers are now routinely used for time-resolved diffraction studies of macromolecules. These techniques are increasingly being applied at synchrotron radiation sources and to a growing diversity of macromolecules. Here, we review recent progress in the field, including visualizing ultrafast structural changes that guide the initial trajectories of light-driven reactions as well as capturing biologically important conformational changes on slower time scales, for which bacteriorhodopsin and photosystem II are presented as illustrative case studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Brändén
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Richard Neutze
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lahey-Rudolph JM, Schönherr R, Barthelmess M, Fischer P, Seuring C, Wagner A, Meents A, Redecke L. Fixed-target serial femtosecond crystallography using in cellulo grown microcrystals. IUCRJ 2021; 8:665-677. [PMID: 34258014 PMCID: PMC8256716 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252521005297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The crystallization of recombinant proteins in living cells is an exciting new approach in structural biology. Recent success has highlighted the need for fast and efficient diffraction data collection, optimally directly exposing intact crystal-containing cells to the X-ray beam, thus protecting the in cellulo crystals from environmental challenges. Serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) at free-electron lasers (XFELs) allows the collection of detectable diffraction even from tiny protein crystals, but requires very fast sample exchange to utilize each XFEL pulse. Here, an efficient approach is presented for high-resolution structure elucidation using serial femtosecond in cellulo diffraction of micometre-sized crystals of the protein HEX-1 from the fungus Neurospora crassa on a fixed target. Employing the fast and highly accurate Roadrunner II translation-stage system allowed efficient raster scanning of the pores of micro-patterned, single-crystalline silicon chips loaded with living, crystal-containing insect cells. Compared with liquid-jet and LCP injection systems, the increased hit rates of up to 30% and reduced background scattering enabled elucidation of the HEX-1 structure. Using diffraction data from only a single chip collected within 12 min at the Linac Coherent Light Source, a 1.8 Å resolution structure was obtained with significantly reduced sample consumption compared with previous SFX experiments using liquid-jet injection. This HEX-1 structure is almost superimposable with that previously determined using synchrotron radiation from single HEX-1 crystals grown by sitting-drop vapour diffusion, validating the approach. This study demonstrates that fixed-target SFX using micro-patterned silicon chips is ideally suited for efficient in cellulo diffraction data collection using living, crystal-containing cells, and offers huge potential for the straightforward structure elucidation of proteins that form intracellular crystals at both XFELs and synchrotron sources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Mia Lahey-Rudolph
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Robert Schönherr
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Photon Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Miriam Barthelmess
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Pontus Fischer
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Seuring
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
- The Hamburg Center for Ultrafast Imaging, 22671 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Armin Wagner
- Diamond Light Source, Diamond House DH2-52, Chilton, Didcot OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Alke Meents
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
- Photon Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lars Redecke
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Photon Science, Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Norton-Baker B, Mehrabi P, Boger J, Schönherr R, von Stetten D, Schikora H, Kwok AO, Martin RW, Miller RJD, Redecke L, Schulz EC. A simple vapor-diffusion method enables protein crystallization inside the HARE serial crystallography chip. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2021; 77:820-834. [PMID: 34076595 PMCID: PMC8171066 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798321003855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fixed-target serial crystallography has become an important method for the study of protein structure and dynamics at synchrotrons and X-ray free-electron lasers. However, sample homogeneity, consumption and the physical stress on samples remain major challenges for these high-throughput experiments, which depend on high-quality protein microcrystals. The batch crystallization procedures that are typically applied require time- and sample-intensive screening and optimization. Here, a simple protein crystallization method inside the features of the HARE serial crystallography chips is reported that circumvents batch crystallization and allows the direct transfer of canonical vapor-diffusion conditions to in-chip crystallization. Based on conventional hanging-drop vapor-diffusion experiments, the crystallization solution is distributed into the wells of the HARE chip and equilibrated against a reservoir with mother liquor. Using this simple method, high-quality microcrystals were generated with sufficient density for the structure determination of four different proteins. A new protein variant was crystallized using the protein concentrations encountered during canonical crystallization experiments, enabling structure determination from ∼55 µg of protein. Additionally, structure determination from intracellular crystals grown in insect cells cultured directly in the features of the HARE chips is demonstrated. In cellulo crystallization represents a comparatively unexplored space in crystallization, especially for proteins that are resistant to crystallization using conventional techniques, and eliminates any need for laborious protein purification. This in-chip technique avoids harvesting the sensitive crystals or any further physical handling of the crystal-containing cells. These proof-of-principle experiments indicate the potential of this method to become a simple alternative to batch crystallization approaches and also as a convenient extension to canonical crystallization screens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brenna Norton-Baker
- Department for Atomically Resolved Dynamics, Max-Planck-Institute for Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2025, USA
| | - Pedram Mehrabi
- Department for Atomically Resolved Dynamics, Max-Planck-Institute for Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging, Universität Hamburg, HARBOR, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Juliane Boger
- Institute of Biochemistry, Center for Structural and Cell Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Robert Schönherr
- Institute of Biochemistry, Center for Structural and Cell Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Photon Science, Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - David von Stetten
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Hamburg Unit c/o Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hendrik Schikora
- Scientific Support Unit Machine Physics, Max-Planck-Institute for Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ashley O. Kwok
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2025, USA
| | - Rachel W. Martin
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2025, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, USA
| | - R. J. Dwayne Miller
- Department of Physics, Universität Hamburg, Jungiusstrasse 9, 20355 Hamburg, Germany
- Departments of Chemistry and Physics, University of Toronto, 80 St George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Lars Redecke
- Institute of Biochemistry, Center for Structural and Cell Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Photon Science, Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eike C. Schulz
- Department for Atomically Resolved Dynamics, Max-Planck-Institute for Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging, Universität Hamburg, HARBOR, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Illava G, Jayne R, Finke AD, Closs D, Zeng W, Milano SK, Huang Q, Kriksunov I, Sidorenko P, Wise FW, Zipfel WR, Apker BA, Thorne RE. Integrated sample-handling and mounting system for fixed-target serial synchrotron crystallography. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2021; 77:628-644. [PMID: 33950019 PMCID: PMC8098472 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798321001868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Serial synchrotron crystallography (SSX) is enabling the efficient use of small crystals for structure-function studies of biomolecules and for drug discovery. An integrated SSX system has been developed comprising ultralow background-scatter sample holders suitable for room and cryogenic temperature crystallographic data collection, a sample-loading station and a humid `gloveless' glovebox. The sample holders incorporate thin-film supports with a variety of designs optimized for different crystal-loading challenges. These holders facilitate the dispersion of crystals and the removal of excess liquid, can be cooled at extremely high rates, generate little background scatter, allow data collection over >90° of oscillation without obstruction or the risk of generating saturating Bragg peaks, are compatible with existing infrastructure for high-throughput cryocrystallography and are reusable. The sample-loading station allows sample preparation and loading onto the support film, the application of time-varying suction for optimal removal of excess liquid, crystal repositioning and cryoprotection, and the application of sealing films for room-temperature data collection, all in a controlled-humidity environment. The humid glovebox allows microscope observation of the sample-loading station and crystallization trays while maintaining near-saturating humidities that further minimize the risks of sample dehydration and damage, and maximize working times. This integrated system addresses common problems in obtaining properly dispersed, properly hydrated and isomorphous microcrystals for fixed-orientation and oscillation data collection. Its ease of use, flexibility and optimized performance make it attractive not just for SSX but also for single-crystal and few-crystal data collection. Fundamental concepts that are important in achieving desired crystal distributions on a sample holder via time-varying suction-induced liquid flows are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Illava
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | | | | | - David Closs
- MiTeGen LLC, PO Box 3867, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Wenjie Zeng
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Shawn K. Milano
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | | | | | - Pavel Sidorenko
- School of Applied and Engineering Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Frank W. Wise
- School of Applied and Engineering Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Warren R. Zipfel
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Mehrabi P, Bücker R, Bourenkov G, Ginn HM, von Stetten D, Müller-Werkmeister HM, Kuo A, Morizumi T, Eger BT, Ou WL, Oghbaey S, Sarracini A, Besaw JE, Pare-Labrosse O, Meier S, Schikora H, Tellkamp F, Marx A, Sherrell DA, Axford D, Owen RL, Ernst OP, Pai EF, Schulz EC, Miller RJD. Serial femtosecond and serial synchrotron crystallography can yield data of equivalent quality: A systematic comparison. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/12/eabf1380. [PMID: 33731353 PMCID: PMC7968842 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abf1380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
For the two proteins myoglobin and fluoroacetate dehalogenase, we present a systematic comparison of crystallographic diffraction data collected by serial femtosecond (SFX) and serial synchrotron crystallography (SSX). To maximize comparability, we used the same batch of micron-sized crystals, the same sample delivery device, and the same data analysis software. Overall figures of merit indicate that the data of both radiation sources are of equivalent quality. For both proteins, reasonable data statistics can be obtained with approximately 5000 room-temperature diffraction images irrespective of the radiation source. The direct comparability of SSX and SFX data indicates that the quality of diffraction data obtained from these samples is linked to the properties of the crystals rather than to the radiation source. Therefore, for other systems with similar properties, time-resolved experiments can be conducted at the radiation source that best matches the desired time resolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Mehrabi
- Department for Atomically Resolved Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany.
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
- Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute, Ontario Cancer Institute, 101 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - R Bücker
- Department for Atomically Resolved Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Department of Chemistry, University of Hamburg, Notkestraße 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - G Bourenkov
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation c/o Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestraße 85, D-22603 Hamburg, Germany
| | - H M Ginn
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot OX11 0DE, UK
| | - D von Stetten
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation c/o Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestraße 85, D-22603 Hamburg, Germany
| | - H M Müller-Werkmeister
- Institute of Chemistry-Physical Chemistry, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24-25, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - A Kuo
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - T Morizumi
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - B T Eger
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - W-L Ou
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - S Oghbaey
- Departments of Chemistry and Physics, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - A Sarracini
- Departments of Chemistry and Physics, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - J E Besaw
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
- Departments of Chemistry and Physics, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - O Pare-Labrosse
- Department for Atomically Resolved Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Departments of Chemistry and Physics, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - S Meier
- Department of Physics, Universität Hamburg, Jungiusstrasse 9, 20355 Hamburg, Germany
| | - H Schikora
- Scientific Support Unit Machine Physics, Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - F Tellkamp
- Scientific Support Unit Machine Physics, Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - A Marx
- Department for Atomically Resolved Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - D A Sherrell
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot OX11 0DE, UK
- Structural Biology Center, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, USA
| | - D Axford
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot OX11 0DE, UK
| | - R L Owen
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot OX11 0DE, UK
| | - O P Ernst
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - E F Pai
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
- Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute, Ontario Cancer Institute, 101 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - E C Schulz
- Department for Atomically Resolved Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany.
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - R J D Miller
- Department for Atomically Resolved Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Departments of Chemistry and Physics, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
- Department of Physics, Universität Hamburg, Jungiusstrasse 9, 20355 Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Stohrer C, Horrell S, Meier S, Sans M, von Stetten D, Hough M, Goldman A, Monteiro DCF, Pearson AR. Homogeneous batch micro-crystallization of proteins from ammonium sulfate. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2021; 77:194-204. [PMID: 33559608 PMCID: PMC7869895 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798320015454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of X-ray free-electron lasers has led to the development of serial macromolecular crystallography techniques, making it possible to study smaller and more challenging crystal systems and to perform time-resolved studies on fast time scales. For most of these studies the desired crystal size is limited to a few micrometres, and the generation of large amounts of nanocrystals or microcrystals of defined size has become a bottleneck for the wider implementation of these techniques. Despite this, methods to reliably generate microcrystals and fine-tune their size have been poorly explored. Working with three different enzymes, L-aspartate α-decarboxylase, copper nitrite reductase and copper amine oxidase, the precipitating properties of ammonium sulfate were exploited to quickly transition from known vapour-diffusion conditions to reproducible, large-scale batch crystallization, circumventing the tedious determination of phase diagrams. Furthermore, the specific ammonium sulfate concentration was used to fine-tune the crystal size and size distribution. Ammonium sulfate is a common precipitant in protein crystallography, making these findings applicable to many crystallization systems to facilitate the production of large amounts of microcrystals for serial macromolecular crystallography experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Stohrer
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Sam Horrell
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging, Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Universität Hamburg, CFEL, Building 99, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Meier
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging, Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Universität Hamburg, CFEL, Building 99, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marta Sans
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging, Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Universität Hamburg, CFEL, Building 99, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - David von Stetten
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Unit c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Hough
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester CO4 3SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Goldman
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5, FIN-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Diana C. F. Monteiro
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging, Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Universität Hamburg, CFEL, Building 99, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Hauptman–Woodward Medical Research Institute, 700 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Arwen R. Pearson
- Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging, Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Universität Hamburg, CFEL, Building 99, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Analysis of Multi-Hit Crystals in Serial Synchrotron Crystallography Experiments Using High-Viscosity Injectors. CRYSTALS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/cryst11010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Serial Synchrotron Crystallography (SSX) is rapidly emerging as a promising technique for collecting data for time-resolved structural studies or for performing room temperature micro-crystallography measurements using micro-focused beamlines. SSX is often performed using high frame rate detectors in combination with continuous sample scanning or high-viscosity or liquid jet injectors. When performed using ultra-bright X-ray Free Electron Laser (XFEL) sources serial crystallography typically involves a process known as ’diffract-and-destroy’ where each crystal is measured just once before it is destroyed by the intense XFEL pulse. In SSX, however, particularly when using high-viscosity injectors (HVIs) such as Lipidico, the crystal can be intercepted multiple times by the X-ray beam prior to exiting the interaction region. This has a number of important consequences for SSX including whether these multiple-hits can be incorporated into the data analysis or whether they need to be excluded due to the potential impact of radiation damage. Here, we investigate the occurrence and characteristics of multiple hits on single crystals using SSX with lipidico. SSX data are collected from crystals as they tumble within a high viscous stream of silicone grease flowing through a micro-focused X-ray beam. We confirmed that, using the Eiger 16M, we are able to collect up to 42 frames of data from the same single crystal prior to it leaving the X-ray interaction region. The frequency and occurrence of multiple hits may be controlled by varying the sample flow rate and X-ray beam size. Calculations of the absorbed dose confirm that these crystals are likely to undergo radiation damage but that nonetheless incorporating multiple hits into damage-free data should lead to a significant reduction in the number of crystals required for structural analysis when compared to just looking at a single diffraction pattern from each crystal.
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
X-ray crystallography enables detailed structural studies of proteins to understand and modulate their function. Conducting crystallographic experiments at cryogenic temperatures has practical benefits but potentially limits the identification of functionally important alternative protein conformations that can be revealed only at room temperature (RT). This review discusses practical aspects of preparing, acquiring, and analyzing X-ray crystallography data at RT to demystify preconceived impracticalities that freeze progress of routine RT data collection at synchrotron sources. Examples are presented as conceptual and experimental templates to enable the design of RT-inspired studies; they illustrate the diversity and utility of gaining novel insights into protein conformational landscapes. An integrative view of protein conformational dynamics enables opportunities to advance basic and biomedical research.
Collapse
|
32
|
A comprehensive approach to X-ray crystallography for drug discovery at a synchrotron facility - The example of Diamond Light Source. DRUG DISCOVERY TODAY. TECHNOLOGIES 2020; 37:83-92. [PMID: 34895658 DOI: 10.1016/j.ddtec.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A detailed understanding of the interactions between drugs and their targets is crucial to develop the best possible therapeutic agents. Structure-based drug design relies on the availability of high-resolution structures obtained primarily through X-ray crystallography. Collecting and analysing quickly a large quantity of structural data is crucial to accelerate drug discovery pipelines. Researchers from academia and industry can access the highly automated macromolecular crystallography (MX) beamlines of Diamond Light Source, the UK national synchrotron, to rapidly collect diffraction data from large numbers of crystals. With seven beamlines dedicated to MX, Diamond offers bespoke solutions for a wide variety of user requirements. Working in synergy with state-of-the-art laboratories and other life science instruments to provide an integrated offering, the MX beamlines provide innovative and multidisciplinary approaches to the determination of structures of new pharmacological targets as well as the efficient study of protein-ligand complexes.
Collapse
|
33
|
Rabe P, Beale JH, Butryn A, Aller P, Dirr A, Lang PA, Axford DN, Carr SB, Leissing TM, McDonough MA, Davy B, Ebrahim A, Orlans J, Storm SLS, Orville AM, Schofield CJ, Owen RL. Anaerobic fixed-target serial crystallography. IUCRJ 2020; 7:901-912. [PMID: 32939282 PMCID: PMC7467159 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252520010374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Cryogenic X-ray diffraction is a powerful tool for crystallographic studies on enzymes including oxygenases and oxidases. Amongst the benefits that cryo-conditions (usually employing a nitro-gen cryo-stream at 100 K) enable, is data collection of di-oxy-gen-sensitive samples. Although not strictly anaerobic, at low temperatures the vitreous ice conditions severely restrict O2 diffusion into and/or through the protein crystal. Cryo-conditions limit chemical reactivity, including reactions that require significant conformational changes. By contrast, data collection at room temperature imposes fewer restrictions on diffusion and reactivity; room-temperature serial methods are thus becoming common at synchrotrons and XFELs. However, maintaining an anaerobic environment for di-oxy-gen-dependent enzymes has not been explored for serial room-temperature data collection at synchrotron light sources. This work describes a methodology that employs an adaptation of the 'sheet-on-sheet' sample mount, which is suitable for the low-dose room-temperature data collection of anaerobic samples at synchrotron light sources. The method is characterized by easy sample preparation in an anaerobic glovebox, gentle handling of crystals, low sample consumption and preservation of a localized anaerobic environment over the timescale of the experiment (<5 min). The utility of the method is highlighted by studies with three X-ray-radiation-sensitive Fe(II)-containing model enzymes: the 2-oxoglutarate-dependent l-arginine hy-droxy-lase VioC and the DNA repair enzyme AlkB, as well as the oxidase isopenicillin N synthase (IPNS), which is involved in the biosynthesis of all penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Rabe
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - John H. Beale
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Agata Butryn
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Pierre Aller
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Dirr
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Pauline A. Lang
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Danny N. Axford
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen B. Carr
- Research Complex at Harwell, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot Oxfordshire OX11 0FA, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas M. Leissing
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A. McDonough
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Bradley Davy
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Ali Ebrahim
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex CO4 3SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Julien Orlans
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
- UMR0203, Biologie Fonctionnelle, Insectes et Interactions, Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon, Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement, University of Lyon, Villeurbanne F-69621, France
| | - Selina L. S. Storm
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Allen M. Orville
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher J. Schofield
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Robin L. Owen
- Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Pearson AR, Mehrabi P. Serial synchrotron crystallography for time-resolved structural biology. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2020; 65:168-174. [PMID: 32846363 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2020.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The current state-of-the-art experiments in time-resolved structural biology are undoubtedly the recent extremely impressive results that are emerging from XFEL-based experiments. However, there is a large range of macromolecular systems where the biological interest is predominantly in the slower dynamics (μs-s), that produce well diffracting microcrystals, and for which synchrotron-based experiments are extremely well suited. The combination of microfocus X-ray beams and the development of a range of sample delivery platforms has now made routine millisecond time-resolved experiments at microfocus macromolecular crystallography beamlines a real possibility and is driving development of dedicated endstations for time-resolved serial synchrotron crystallography.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arwen R Pearson
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging, Universität Hamburg, CFEL, Luruper Chaussee 149, Hamburg 22761, Germany.
| | - Pedram Mehrabi
- Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, CFEL, Luruper Chaussee 149, Hamburg 22761, Germany
| |
Collapse
|