Smaller capillaries improve the small-angle X-ray scattering signal and sample consumption for biomacromolecular solutions.

ABSTRACT: Radiation damage by intense X-ray beams at modern synchrotron facilities is one of the major complications for biological small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) investigations of macromolecules in solution. To limit the damage, samples are typically measured under a laminar flow through a cell (typically a capillary) such that fresh solution is continuously exposed to the beam during measurement. The diameter of the capillary that optimizes the scattering-to-absorption ratio at a given X-ray wavelength can be calculated a priori based on fundamental physical properties. However, these well established scattering and absorption principles do not take into account the radiation susceptibility of the sample or the often very limited amounts of precious biological material available for an experi

SUBMITTER: Schroer MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6038601 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature