Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
15:41
A Microfluidic Chip for the Versatile Chemical Analysis of Single Cells
Published on: October 15, 2013
15.5K
Biocrystallography in Switzerland: Achievements and Future Perspectives
1University of Zurich, Department of Biochemistry, Winterthurerstr. 190 CH-8057 Zürich, Switzerland. gruetter@bioc.uzh.ch.
Chimia
|October 7, 2017
Summary
Swiss structural biology, particularly protein crystallography, has advanced significantly over 40 years. Leading research in supramolecular complexes and membrane proteins positions Switzerland at the forefront of biostructural innovation.
Area of Science:
- Structural Biology
- Biophysics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Protein crystallography in Switzerland began 40 years ago at the University of Basel.
- It has since expanded across academia, industry, and biotech, establishing Switzerland as a leader.
- Swiss groups have made significant contributions to biostructural research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development and current standing of protein crystallography in Switzerland.
- To highlight key achievements and future prospects in Swiss structural biology.
- To underscore Switzerland's leading role in specific research areas.
Main Methods:
- Protein crystallography
- X-ray biocrystallography
- Structure determination of supramolecular complexes and membrane proteins
Main Results:
- Pioneered outer membrane protein OmpF crystallography and lipidic cubic phase crystallization.
- Achieved breakthroughs in determining structures of G-protein coupled receptors.
- Generated high-impact structures of ribosomal particles, nucleosomes, and pilus assembly complexes.
Conclusions:
- Switzerland holds a leading global position in structural biology, especially in supramolecular complexes, membrane proteins, and structure-based drug design.
- Ongoing advancements and new facilities like SwissFEL promise a bright future.
- The field's growth reflects strong academic and industrial collaboration and infrastructure.
