Maximum-likelihood crystallization.

The crystallization facility of the TB Structural Genomics Consortium, one of nine NIH-sponsored structural genomics pilot projects, employs a combinatorial random sampling technique in high-throughput crystallization screening. Although data are still sparse and a comprehensive analysis cannot be performed at this stage, preliminary results appear to validate the random-screening concept. A discussion of statistical crystallization data analysis aims to draw attention to the need for comprehensive and valid sampling protocols. In view of limited overlap in techniques and sampling parameters between the publicly funded high-throughput crystallography initiatives, exchange of information should be encouraged, aiming to effectively integrate data mining efforts into a comprehensive predictive framework for protein crystallization.