ADVANCES OF PROTEIN CRYSTALLIZATION UNDER MICROGRAVITY IN CHINA

摘要

Due to the importance and complexity for obtaining biomacromolecular crystals, protein crystal growth has been a promising biological processing in space. Based on encouraging results of the first space experiment of protein crystallization with a tube-like vapor diffusion apparatus, the second satellite mission of protein crystallization was conducted in July 1994. More than 14 different proteins have been tested on the crystallization missions. In comparison with the first mission, much better results were obtained on the second one. The effects of microgravity on nucleation, size, external perfection and internal order of protein crystals are reproducible, and could be noticeable with optimization of crystallization conditions. To accumulate more experience of microgravity growth of protein crystals, a liquid/liquid diffusion crystallization of proteins was attempted in September 1995, using MDA facility aboard U.S. space shuttle. The good-quality protein crystals grown in the space experiments have been used in structural studies.