In the last few months, the first experiments on the MANACÁ beamline were carried out by external researchers dedicated to studying the molecular mechanisms related to the action of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Now, continuing the scientific commissioning phase of this beamline, researchers from other fields are invited to submit their proposals to use the MANACÁ beamline, dedicated to macromolecule crystallography, which allows the study of the three-dimensional structure of human proteins and enzymes and pathogens, with atomic resolution.

New Call for Proposals

As of October 20^th, 2020, researchers from any area will be able to submit research proposals to use the MANACÁ beamline. These researchers must have previous experience in using a synchrotron beamline, especially in protein crystallography.

It is important to note that, at this moment, Sirius is still in the commissioning phase, which imposes some limitations for carrying out experiments. The MANACÁ beamline does not yet operate in the final configuration envisaged in the project.

More information is available clicking here.

Sirius Commissioning

Since obtaining the first images by X-ray microtomography, in December 2019, the CNPEM team continues to dedicate itself to the commissioning of electron accelerators. Sirius currently works with a stable circulating current in the accelerators at around 10% of the current expected for its full operation.

On July 13th, 2020, the MANACÁ beamline began to receive research proposals from external researchers dedicated to studying the molecular mechanisms related to the action of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

The other beamlines of the first phase (CARNAÚBA, CATERETÊ, EMA, IPÊ, MOGNO) are in an advanced stage of assembly.