An automated system for micro-batch protein crystallization and screening

An automatic sample dispenser has been constructed to aid with protein crystallization trials. This dispenser contains a bank of Hamilton syringes driven by stepper motors under computer control which is used to set up small samples (2 μl or less) for batch crystallization. Software has been written to create a series of trials which form a two-dimensional array of crystallization conditions. A specially designed fluoropolymer multibore microtip allows the very small volumes to be mixed and dispensed with great accuracy.