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Syringe, Protein Crystal Growth Experiment, Space Shuttle

Object Details

Summary
Syringes such as this one were used in protein crystal growth experiments on the Space Shuttle. Astronauts activated experiments by injecting a solution into a growth cell to start the process of protein crystal growth. By experimenting with different proteins, solutions, and growth conditions, researchers learned more about producing protein crystals large enough to be studied well. This knowledge is important for medical, drug, and agricultural research. A group of researchers actively involved in experiments for Shuttle flights gave this item and a large set of protein crystal growth equipment to the Museum.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Manufacturer
Hamilton Company
Credit Line
Gift of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Center for Biological Sciences and Engineering
Materials
Stainless steel, plastics, glass, Velcro
Dimensions
3-D: 16.5 x 4.1 x 3.2cm (6 1/2 x 1 5/8 x 1 1/4 in.)
Type
EQUIPMENT-Scientific Devices
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