The structural biology and genomics platform in strasbourg: an overview

This chapter describes the modules and facilities of the Structural Biology and Genomics Platform (SBGP), Strasbourg, France. The platform consists of three modules (cloning, mini-expression screening; optimization-large scale protein production; characterization, crystallization) with dedicated scientists, and other facilities for purifying recombinant proteins and solving three-dimensional (3D) structures. Strong collaborations have been established with the Integrative Bioinformatics and Genomics group, located in the same institition, for target selection and domains definition. To handle large numbers of samples, classical and new protocols were adapted to automation, increasing reproducibility and reducing error risks as well. Using the platform and its facilities, over 2,000 expression vectors have been constructed and more than 40 novel structures, of mostly human proteins, have been solved.