Publications [#232069] of Patrick Charbonneau

Papers Published

1. Fusco, D; Charbonneau, P, Competition between monomeric and dimeric crystals in schematic models for globular proteins., The journal of physical chemistry. B, vol. 118 no. 28 (July, 2014), pp. 8034-8041, ISSN 1520-6106 [jp5011428], [doi]
   (last updated on 2026/01/19)

   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.