Mario Lentini

Papers

Total Citations

111

H-Index

About

Mario Lentini is a leading figure in structural biology, whose work has fundamentally advanced the field of macromolecular crystallography through pioneering automation. His key research areas center on developing robust, standardized tools for high-throughput sample handling, directly addressing a critical bottleneck in structural determination. Lentini’s most notable contribution is the creation of the SPINE standard sample holder, a modified cryocooled crystal mount that became the global benchmark for robotic sample changers. This innovation, detailed in his highly cited 2006 paper “Automation of sample mounting for macromolecular crystallography” (over 110 citations), transformed crystallography by enabling reliable, unattended data collection at synchrotron facilities. By defining precise specifications for vials and holders, his work eliminated variability, dramatically increasing throughput and reproducibility for thousands of researchers worldwide. Lentini’s impact extends beyond his citation count; his standard is now embedded in nearly every modern beamline, accelerating discoveries in drug design and molecular biology. His achievement exemplifies how elegant engineering can solve complex scientific challenges, making him a pivotal figure in the automation revolution that continues to shape structural biology today.