Macromolecular Crystallography: Conventional and High Throughput Methods

Macromolecular Crystallography is the study of macromolecules (proteins and nucleic acids, i.e. DNA and RNA) using X-ray crystallographic techniques in order to determine their molecular structure. The knowledge of accurate molecular structures is a pre-requisite for rational drug design, and for structure based function studies to aid the development of effective therapeutic agents and drugs. The successful determination of the complete genome (genetic sequence) of several species, including humans, has directed scientific attention to identifying the structure and function of the complete complement of proteins that make up that species; a new and rapidly growing field of study called 'structural genomics'. There are now several important and well-funded global initiatives in operation to identify all of the proteins of key model species. One of the main requirements for these initiatives is a high-throughput crystallisation facility to speed-up the protein identification process. The extent to which these technologies have advanced, calls for an updated review of current crystallographic theory and practice. This title in the Practical Approach Series, dealing with both conventional and high-throughput methods, includes contributions from internationally recognized leaders and experts in their fields, supplying a considerable breadth of experience and expertise.