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An automated protein crystal growth facility on the space stationThe need is addressed for an automated Protein Crystal Growth experiment on the Space Station and how robotics will be integrated into the system design. This automated laboratory system will enable several hundred protein crystals to grow simultaneously in microgravity and will allow the major variables in protein crystal growth to be monitored and controlled during the experiment. Growing good quality crystals is important in determining the complete structure of the protein by X-ray diffraction. This information is useful in the research and development of medicines and other important medical and biotechnological products. Previous Protein Crystal Growth experiments indicate that the microgravity environment of space allows larger crystals of higher quality to be grown as compared to the same crystals grown on the ground. It is therefore important to have a laboratory in space where protein crystals can be grown under carefully controlled conditions so that a crystal type can be reproduced as needed.
Document ID
19890015449
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Herrmann, Melody
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Date Acquired
August 13, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1988
Publication Information
Publication: Tactical Weapons Guidance and Control Information Conference on Space and Military Applications of Automation and Robotics
Subject Category
Materials Processing
Accession Number
89N24820
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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