Controlled In Meso Phase Crystallization – A Method for the Structural Investigation of Membrane Proteins
Figure 2
The monoolein/water isotherm at 22°C.
With increasing water content, the layered lamellar phases (Lc, Lα), cubic phases (Ia3d, Pn3m) and the phase Pn3m + water are formed [5]. The transition from lamellar phase to cubic phase can be monitored by the optical property of the phase (loss of birefringence, see Figure 1). The depiction of the phases has been adapted from M. Caffrey [33]. The water content required for the formation of the individual phases can be targeted by vapor diffusion and addition of diluted screen solution as indicated (e.g. 1/1 means undiluted and 1/4 means the dilution of screen solution by a factor of 4).