A -- Protein Crystallization System

LAWRENCE LIVERMORE NATIONAL LABORATORY SEEKS PARTNERSHIPS WITH INDUSTRY TO COMMERCIALIZE ITS INVENTION OF HIGH THROUGHPUT PROTEIN CRYSTALLIZATION SYSTEM Announcement: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), operated by the University of California under contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), is seeking one or more industrial partners to commercialize LLNL's invention of a high throughput protein crystallization system. The technology enables comprehensive crystallization screens for approximately eight (8) protein samples a day. Protein samples are first prescreened and the concentration is adjusted to obtain optimum concentration for crystallization screening. The protein is then subjected to a set of special screening conditions generated by software tools (CRYSTOOL) and setup with a liquid handling robot. Typically, these screening conditions are set up in a 96-well deep well block and stored for later use. Four blocks, or screens, of the conditions are usually sufficient for a comprehensive screening for a new protein. After crystal-screening conditions are set up in crystallization experiments with a protein of interest, a robotic CCD microscope views the samples at regular intervals. Images of each crystallization trial are taken and analyzed by a LLNL's proprietary, highly effective, crystal detection system to identify wells containing crystals. Secondary review and confirmation of crystallogenesis is done by visual inspection of the acquired images. It often occurs that diffraction quality crystals are obtained from initial screens but information derived from initial screening experiments may also be used to optimize crystal formation and to harvest crystals for diffraction studies. LLNL is in the process of filing patent applications and registering copyrights for the technology. LLNL is looking for industrial partners to commercialize one or more applications of this invention. Licenses to software for generating special screening conditions, or for crystal detection systems are available. Note: THIS IS NOT A PROCUREMENT. Companies interested in commercializing LLNL's high throughput protein crystallization system should provide a written statement of interest and a description of corporate capabilities relevant to commercializing the technology. Companies interested in an end-user license for LLNL's software should also provide a written statement of interest. Written responses should be directed to: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Industrial Partnerships and Commercialization P.O. Box 808, L-795 Livermore, CA 94551-0808 Attention: FBO02-015-302 Please provide your written statement within thirty (30) days from the date this announcement is published to ensure consideration of your interest in LLNL's high throughput protein crystallization system.