Macromolecular X-Ray Crystallography

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to Macromolecular X-Ray Crystallography as discussed in Dr. Jose Ortega-Roldan's lecture.

X-ray Crystallography

Technique used to determine the three-dimensional structure of molecules at atomic resolution.

T-Cell receptor (TCR)

A molecule on T-cells that recognizes and binds to antigens presented by HLA molecules.

Peptide

Short chains of amino acids that can bind to T-cell receptors.

HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen)

A protein that presents peptides to T-cell receptors, crucial for immune response.

Electron density map

A representation of the electron density of a crystal used to determine its molecular structure.

Bragg's Law

Mathematical formula that relates the angle of incidence of X-rays to the spacing between crystal planes.

Fourier Transform

Mathematical process used to convert a diffraction pattern into an electron density map.

Nobel Prize

International award given annually for achievements in various fields, including chemistry and medicine.

Cryo-Electron Microscopy

Technique that allows for high-resolution imaging of biological macromolecules in their natural state.

Symmetry operations

Transformations (such as rotation and reflection) used to classify the symmetry of crystals.

Unit cell

The smallest repeating unit in a crystal lattice that reflects the symmetry and structure of the entire crystal.

Macromolecule

Large complex molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates, crucial for biological functions.

Diffraction

The bending of waves around obstacles or through openings, used in crystallography to study crystal structures.

Signal/noise ratio

A measure used in data collection that compares the level of desired signal to the level of background noise.

Zinc binding

Interaction of zinc ions with proteins or enzymes, often influencing their activity or function.

Cancer

A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell division and growth, often associated with genetic mutations.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

A molecule that carries energy within cells, essential for many cellular processes.