The signal-to-noise ratio of data is one of the most important considerations in performing X-ray diffraction measurements from microcrystals. The VMXm beamline provides a low-noise environment and microbeam for such experiments. Here, we describe sample preparation methods for mounting and cooling microcrystals for VMXm and other microfocus macromolecular crystallography beamlines.
We present a protocol for the crystallization of proteins using the crystallization facility in the Research Complex at Harwell and subsequent in situ X-ray crystallographic data collection from crystals within the plates at Diamond's Versatile Macromolecular Crystallography in situ (VMXi) beamline. We describe sample requirements, crystallization protocols, and data collection guidelines.