SBIR-STTR Award

The aim of the work is to demonstrate the feasibility of employing Quantex's electron trapping (ETIM) materials to record protein crystallographic patterns. A secondary aim is to evaluate appropriate read-out systems for this stored information. This new technology should considerably simplify data taking and processing, and, as a consequence, speed up the data collection. The specific work that will be performed includes phosphor ingot preparation, powder preparation, detector screen fabrication, evaluation of the screens and evaluation of the readout systems. This work, if successful, should have applications not only in structural biology, but also in inorganic materials science because of the potential for high sensitivity and high resolution.Awardee's statement of the potential commercial applications of the research:The recording media and read-out system could provide a significant improvement in data taking and processing in structural biology, inorganic materials science.National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)

During the previous Phase I study, the feasibility of employing our patented storage phosphor materials for digital X-ray crystallography of protein crystals was demonstrated. The results indicate that reasonable spatial resolutions and sensitivity can be obtained relative to X-ray film and other detection methods. In Phase II, the aim will be to build on Phase I accomplishments and to develop a high-speed digital readout and display system suitable for laboratory use. In addition Phase II will involve extensive laboratory testing of the prototype system and storage phosphor screens to fully optimize both imaging screens and the readout parameters, as well as to demonstrate the laboratory usefulness of the prototype system.Awardee's statement of the potential commercial applications of the research: Although the system is specifically directed towards addressing difficulties encountered during protein crystallography, it will, nevertheless find use in any application where crystallography is performed. It is expected that the system will be especially useful in synchrotron facilities because of its greater dynamic range and sensitivity.National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)