Publications [#232069] of Patrick Charbonneau
Papers Published
- Fusco, D; Charbonneau, P, "Competition between monomeric and dimeric crystals in schematic models for globular proteins.", The journal of physical chemistry. BJuly,, 2014, 118(28), 8034-8041 [jp5011428], [doi].
(last updated on 2024/11/19)Abstract:
Advances in experimental techniques and in theoretical models have improved our understanding of protein crystallization. However, they have also left open questions regarding the protein phase behavior and self-assembly kinetics, such as why (nearly) identical crystallization conditions can sometimes result in the formation of different crystal forms. Here, we develop a patchy particle model with competing sets of patches that provides a microscopic explanation of this phenomenon. We identify different regimes in which one or two crystal forms can coexist with a low-density fluid. Using analytical approximations, we extend our findings to different crystal phases, providing a general framework for treating protein crystallization when multiple crystal forms compete. Our results also suggest different experimental routes for targeting a specific crystal form, and for reducing the dynamical competition between the two forms, thus facilitating protein crystal assembly.