Serial femtosecond crystallography: A revolution in structural biology.

ABSTRACT: Macromolecular crystallography at synchrotron sources has proven to be the most influential method within structural biology, producing thousands of structures since its inception. While its utility has been instrumental in progressing our knowledge of structures of molecules, it suffers from limitations such as the need for large, well-diffracting crystals, and radiation damage that can hamper native structural determination. The recent advent of X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) and their implementation in the emerging field of serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) has given rise to a remarkable expansion upon existing crystallographic constraints, allowing structural biologists access to previously restricted scientific territory. SFX relies on exceptionally brilliant, micro-focused

SUBMITTER: Martin-Garcia JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4909539 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature