Single-shot diffraction data from the Mimivirus particle using an X-ray free-electron laser

Sci Data. 2016 Aug 1:3:160060. doi: 10.1038/sdata.2016.60.

Abstract

Free-electron lasers (FEL) hold the potential to revolutionize structural biology by producing X-ray pules short enough to outrun radiation damage, thus allowing imaging of biological samples without the limitation from radiation damage. Thus, a major part of the scientific case for the first FELs was three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of non-crystalline biological objects. In a recent publication we demonstrated the first 3D reconstruction of a biological object from an X-ray FEL using this technique. The sample was the giant Mimivirus, which is one of the largest known viruses with a diameter of 450 nm. Here we present the dataset used for this successful reconstruction. Data-analysis methods for single-particle imaging at FELs are undergoing heavy development but data collection relies on very limited time available through a highly competitive proposal process. This dataset provides experimental data to the entire community and could boost algorithm development and provide a benchmark dataset for new algorithms.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Computer Simulation
  • Crystallography, X-Ray
  • Data Collection
  • Electrons
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Lasers
  • Mimiviridae*
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Particle Size
  • Scattering, Radiation
  • X-Ray Diffraction*
  • X-Rays