DEMAX (external website) and LP3 are collaborating to coordinate their efforts to develop cost-effective production of deuterated biomaterials (lipids and proteins) for neutron-based methods such as protein crystallography, neutron reflectometry, and small angle neutron scattering. Perdeuterated proteins will also be crystallized and optimized to promote maximal crystal volumes as required by neutron protein crystallography.
Access to both state-of-the-art large scale facilities (MAX IV for X-rays and ESS for neutrons) will increase the local and international capacity for innovation in the life sciences. Partnering between LP3 and DEMAX enables effective coordination of capabilities in the region. To enable efficient use of these unique and powerful facilities by Lund researchers, Lund University hosts the Lund protein production platform, LP3. LP3 offer services to users from construct design all the way to crystals, if required. The LP3 specialises in protein production, protein purification, biophysical characterisation, isotope labelling of both proteins and lipids, and crystallisation. DEMAX is an ESS platform dedicated to international users of the neutron scattering facility and will support deuteration of biomolecules and small molecule chemicals, as well as large crystal growth for neutron protein crystallography. The synergies between LP3 and DEMAX are very strong and we look forward to a productive collaboration.