Automated Liquid Handling
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Automated Liquid Handling

Automation of Protein Crystallography



VERSA 110 NGLP Liquid Handling Workstation

Tertiary protein structure is highly sought after by the pharmaceutical industry as it provides a means of rational drug design. This technique is commonly used for structural biology applications such as preclinical chemistry and target validation. Understanding this level of protein structure is valuable for primary research groups as it facilitates a deeper understanding of functional characteristics. Protein crystallography has been adopted by many groups due to the sensitivity it offers when constructing three dimensional protein models. The major constraint is the identification of a precise set of conditions that lead to crystal formation, as they vary for different proteins. Proteins typically only form crystals when exposed to a precisely optimized set of conditions.

VERSA liquid handling workstations such as the VERSA 110 are ideal for quickly setting up multiple protein crystallography conditions in high volume. Aurora’s proprietary ReagentDrop clusters enable fast bulk-dispensing of varying volumes of salts and solvents, while the integrated SyringePipettor module automatically engages disposable tips for reliable liquid handling of viscous solutions such as polyethylene glycol. Software controlled serial dilution options are standard with each VERSA workstation. These small footprint systems prepare multiple protein crystallography plates while minimizing occupied bench space.