MST Benchmark Study

Aim

WG4 has initiated a benchmarking study on microscale thermophoresis (MST) aiming to test its reproducibility and reliability, especially as MST is a rather new technique.  32 labs agreed to participate with an overall number of 41 instruments (Monolith NT.115 and Monolith Pico).

Samples

Overall, three samples are tested: two samples to measure interaction and one sample to measure the absolute performance of several instrument parameters. The two standard systems for interaction are a well-established protein:small molecule system (lysozyme:NAG3) and a new standard system for protein:protein interaction developed in Tom Jowitt’s lab, Manchester, UK, (lysozyme:nanobody).

Setup and workflow

Samples were prepared centrally (including fluorescent labelling) and distributed in March. All systems are measured in triplicates according to an SOP established by the MST benchmarking team and measurements should be finished by the end of April. Afterwards, all participants analyse their data as they usually do.

Data are made anonymous before being sent to the MST benchmarking team. Raw data will be reanalysed centrally using different software packages, evaluating the influence of different algorithms/softwares, and compared to the results of the lab-specific analyses.

We are currently looking for a motivated scientist to be involved in central data analysis and evaluation of the results, possibly in the frame of a short term scientific mission (STSM) hosted by Stephan Uebel (Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany) in cooperation with NanoTemper (Martinsried, Germany).

Candidates should have experience in Excel (statistics, solver), experience in MST is a plus. If you are interested, please contact Arthur Sedivy (arthur.sedivy@vbcf.ac.at).

Responsible people

Arthur Sedivy (coordinator), Bruno Baron, Robert Gilbert, Tom Jowitt, Stefan Knauer, Blanca Lopez-Mendez, Stephan Uebel

Contact

Arthur Sedivy (arthur.sedivy@vbcf.ac.at).