Expression, purification, and crystallization of neuro- and cytoglobin

Neuroglobin and cytoglobin, members of the globin family, are present in vertebrate cells at very low concentrations. As the function of both proteins is still a matter of debate, it is very important to be able to produce and purify these proteins, and in general all members of the globin family, to homogeneity. For this purpose, this chapter describes the expression of neuro- and cytoglobin by E. coli and its preparative purification. These proteins are then used in crystallization experiments. Also an analytical purification strategy is discussed in detail.