A dynamic laser light-scattering instrument (ProteinSolutions
Dynapro99) is available for rapid determination of molecular weight and
detection of aggregation. This
determination is made from measuring molecular radius of multiple
species in the sample. Aggregation can be detected if the monomer molecular weight is
already known. Aggregation is a hindrance to crystallization;
therefore, it is often useful to monitor this after making new
constructs.
A CD (Jasco 810 Spectropolarimeter) makes possible structural
/ conformational evaluation of proteins and peptides, as to alpha helix, proline II
helix, and beta-sheet content. Dr. Trevor Creamer is using this
instrument for studying the structural properties of proteins
susceptible to aggregation and misfolding, relevant to Huntington's
disease.
A MicroCal isothermal microcalorimeter (ITC) is available for
determining thermodynamic characteristics of molecular binding
interactions.
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