High-quality crystallization of lysozyme by magneto-Archimedes levitation in a superconducting magnet

Abstract

By using gadolinium chloride as a crystallizing agent, and by applying a magnetic field of 3.8 T, we could crystallize lysozyme in a floating and containerless state. Optically, these crystals had little injury on the surface. Such flawless crystals were obtained only when they crystallized at the air–solution interface. White X-ray topography also showed that the crystals grown in a floating state contained less strain. As to why the crystals floated, we considered that magneto-Archimedes levitation occurred: lysozyme crystals are diamagnetic and the solution containing the Gd ions is paramagnetic. Owing to the difference in the magnetic property, the upward magnetic buoyancy force acting on the crystals could be enhanced, leading to levitation even in a usual superconducting magnet. This method may be used to manufacture high-quality protein crystals.