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Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Multi-target Parallel Processing Approach for Gene-to-structure Determination of the Influenza Polymerase PB2 Subunit
Published on: June 28, 2013
Protein Structure Initiative Material Repository: an open shared public resource of structural genomics plasmids for
Catherine Y Cormier1, Stephanie E Mohr, Dongmei Zuo
1Arizona State University, Biodesign Institute, Virginia G Piper Center for Personalized Diagnostics, 1001 S McAllister Dr Tempe, AZ 85287-6401, USA.
The Protein Structure Initiative Material Repository (PSI-MR) offers expression-ready plasmids for protein research. An Expedited Process Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) streamlines distribution, accelerating scientific discovery.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Structural Biology
Background:
- The Protein Structure Initiative (PSI) identifies protein structures.
- Researchers need access to expression-ready plasmids to study protein function.
- Current plasmid distribution methods face delays due to complex Material Transfer Agreements (MTAs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a centralized repository for PSI-generated protein expression plasmids.
- To provide researchers with easy access to plasmids for protein function studies.
- To streamline the plasmid distribution process by simplifying MTA procedures.
Main Methods:
- Centralized storage and distribution of protein expression plasmids via the Protein Structure Initiative Material Repository (PSI-MR).
- Annotation of plasmids including sequence, vector information, and publications in the DNASU database.
- Implementation of an Expedited Process MTA network to pre-approve terms of transfer between institutions.
Main Results:
- The PSI-MR provides a searchable database (DNASU) with comprehensive plasmid annotations and links to additional resources.
- Plasmid samples can be requested directly through the PSI-MR website.
- The Expedited Process MTA eliminates delays associated with traditional MTA processing, facilitating faster material transfer.
Conclusions:
- The PSI-MR and DNASU database enhance accessibility of protein expression plasmids for the research community.
- The Expedited Process MTA significantly reduces logistical barriers in plasmid distribution.
- These initiatives aim to accelerate the pace of scientific discovery by improving access to crucial research tools.
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