Stockholm university

Research project CRYSTAL-X - Uncovering hidden structures in protein crystallization with coherent X-rays

This project studies protein crystallization in ferritin microdroplets. Using X-ray Photon Correlation Spectroscopy and facilities like ESRF and Eu-XFEL, it investigates hidden intermediate states and water's role in the crystallization process.

This project aims to unravel the mysteries of protein crystallization, a key process for understanding protein functions and dynamics. Focusing on ferritin solutions in microdroplets, we investigate anomalous crystallization pathways using X-ray Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (XPCS) to study the dynamics of proteins and amorphous precursors. We also examine the role of water structuring near protein surfaces and its impact on desolvation, a critical step influencing crystal formation. Leveraging advanced facilities like ESRF and Eu-XFEL, this research explores non-classical crystallization to uncover new insights into protein behavior.

Project members

Project managers

Anita Girelli

Postdoktor

Department of Physics
Anita Girelli

Members

Foivos Perakis

Associate professor

Department of Physics
Foivos Perakis

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