Structure Determination Service

Structure determination is a process to obtain the three dimension coordinates of a molecule or biomolecule by a selected method. In the drug discovery process, the next important step, after the target is identified, is to obtain this 3D structure. This helps to generate the topological map and study mode of action (MOA) of molecular surfaces to optimize efficacy and selectivity.

Creative Biolabs has been focusing on drug discovery for years. Our team is able to provide structural determination services using a wide range of cutting-edge methods to facilitate your research in structural biology.

Our Capabilities in Structure Determination

X-ray Crystallography

For molecules of any size
Sample must be crystallized in a lattice structure
Atomic resolution but crystallization may take years and damage protein structure

NMR Spectroscopy

For small molecules
Sample must be dissolved in water
Closer to real protein structure but larger protein can not be resolved

Cryo-Electron Microscopy

For larger molecules
Sample is frozen in its native state
Near-atomic resolution, fast sample preparation

X-ray Crystallography Workflow

Grow crystals of the protein
Obtain the X-ray diffraction data
Computer electron density maps
Atomic model calculation and refinement

In addition to the three proprietary technologies mentioned above, we have also developed small angle X-ray and neutron scattering techniques.

Small-Angle X-Ray and Neutron Scattering

SANS and SAXS are two types of small-angle scattering techniques used for detecting macromolecular /molecular structures or self-assembled aggregates. These techniques are very useful for people who study polymer and colloidal sciences since they normally need to detect in a relative small scale (about 1nm to 1μm).

Advantages of SANS and SAXS:

Help scientists get information about the size, shape, and spatial relationship of analyte, macromolecules and components
SANS and SAXS do not require analytes to crystallizes in advance
Get useful information even in the range of 1-1000 nm
Measure the size, shape and spatial relationship of macromolecules and components

Through continuous training and collaborations with scientist in the fields, we have built quality infrastructures over the years. This allows us to provide diverse services for clients all around the world.

Please feel free to contact us for more detailed information.