Analytical light scattering methods in molecular and structural biology: Experimental aspects and results

Non-invasive light scattering methods provide data on biological macromolecules (i.e. proteins, nucleic acids, as well as assemblies and larger entities composed of them) that are complementary with those of size exclusion chromatography, gel electrophoresis, analytical ultracentrifugation and mass spectrometry methods. Static light scattering measurements are useful to determine the mass of macromolecules and to monitor aggregation phenomena. Dynamic light scattering measurements are suitable for the quality control and to assess sample homogeneity, to determine particle size, examine the effect of physical and chemical treatments, probe the binding of ligands, and study interactions between macromolecules.