Experimental approaches for solution X-ray scattering and fiber diffraction

Abstract

X-ray scattering and diffraction from non-crystalline systems have gained renewed interest in recent years, as focus shifts from the structural chemistry information gained by high-resolution studies to the context of structural physiology at larger length scales. Such techniques permit the study of isolated macromolecules as well as highly organized macromolecular assemblies as a whole under near-physiological conditions. Time-resolved approaches, made possible by advanced synchrotron instrumentation, add a critical dimension to many of these investigations. This article reviews experimental approaches in non-crystalline x-ray scattering and diffraction that may be used to illuminate important scientific questions such as protein/nucleic acid folding and structure-function relationships in large macromolecular assemblies.

Bridging the solution divide: comprehensive structural analyses of dynamic RNA, DNA, and protein assemblies by small-angle X-ray scattering

“…Thus, in recent years, the ‘old’ but with advanced computing and synchrotron technologies ‘new’ technique of SAXS has developed into a powerful structural tool that complements MX and other high resolution methods [3,4]. SAXS can be performed under many solution conditions, and is the only structural technique that can be performed under near native conditions with minimal amounts of sample (15 uL at 0.1 to 1 mg/mL).…”

Structural characterization of proteins and complexes using small-angle X-ray solution scattering

“…1A). For an in-depth review of the theory behind SAXS the reader is directed to text-books and recent reviews (Feigin and Svergun, 1987;Koch et al, 2003;Putnam et al, 2007;Svergun, 2007;Svergun and Koch, 2003;Tsuruta and Irving, 2008), here some of the basic concepts will be presented with a focus on the characterization of proteins and protein complexes.…”

Structure modeling from small angle X-ray scattering data with elastic network normal mode analysis

“…Additionally, we focus on computational methods that enable the characterization of protein or protein assembly conformational changes at the atomic level, and computational methods that have been developed for protein structure prediction will not be reviewed (Petoukhov et al, 2002;Doniach, 2002, 2005;Wu et al, 2005). SAXS experiment is an old but interesting tool to study structure of biological molecules in solution (Koch et al, 2003;Putnam et al, 2007;Tsuruta and Irving, 2008;Jacques and Trewhella, 2010). Its strength arises from its simpleness, i.e., it does not require special sample preparation.…”