Effects of a Strong Magnetic Field on Protein Crystal Growth

Abstract

The effect of a strong magnetic field on protein crystal growth is a new research field. Here, we review research on protein crystallization in magnetic fields, including magnetic orientation of protein crystals, magnetic control of effective gravity on earth, formation of protein crystals in various effective gravity, magnetic improvement in crystal quality, magnetic increase in viscosity of protein aqueous solutions, damping of natural convection by Lorentz force, etc. Four mechanisms are currently known to be involved in the effects of magnetic fields on protein crystal growth and all of them may contribute to the improvement of crystal quality. High quality protein crystals are critical in determining the structure of protein molecules by using X-ray diffraction analysis. Strong magnetic fields will help to improve crystal quality.