LMM Biophysics 6

LMM Biophysics 6 (Growth Rate Dispersion as a Predictive Indicator for Biological Crystal Samples Where Quality Can be Improved with Microgravity Growth)

Scientists use X-ray crystallography to view molecules that are too small to be seen under a microscope; but this requires crystallizing them, which is difficult to do on Earth. Observing crystallized proteins allows scientists to determine how they are built, which can explain how they work or how other molecules, such as drugs, might interact with them. Growth Rate Dispersion as a Predictive Indicator for Biological Crystal Samples Where Quality Can Be Improved with Microgravity Growth (LMM Biophysics 6) studies ground-based predictions of which crystals benefit from crystallization in microgravity, where Earth’s gravity does not interfere with their formation. In this experiment, 2 proteins of interest in cancer treatment and radiation protection are to be studied.