image: Comparison of typical L-cystine crystal grown in the laboratory (large hexagonal crystal in the center of the figure) and a typical L-cystine crystal grown in the presence of the crystal growth inhibitor L-CDME (upper right inset panel). The crystals are drawn at the same scale. The hexagonal faces at the ends of the small crystal are 1000 times smaller than those of the unmodified crystals (the hexagonal faces are not observable between the small crystal is lying on its side). This image relates to an article that appeared in the Oct. 15, 2010, issue of Science, published by AAAS. The study, by Dr. J.D. Rimer of New York University in New York, NY, and colleagues was titled, "Crystal Growth Inhibitors for the Prevention of L-Cystine Kidney Stones Through Molecular Design." view more
Credit: Image courtesy of Science/AAAS