1
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Tants JN, Schlundt A. Advances, Applications, and Perspectives in Small-Angle X-ray Scattering of RNA. Chembiochem 2023; 24:e202300110. [PMID: 37466350 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
RNAs exhibit a plethora of functions far beyond transmitting genetic information. Often, RNA functions are entailed in their structure, be it as a regulatory switch, protein binding site, or providing catalytic activity. Structural information is a prerequisite for a full understanding of RNA-regulatory mechanisms. Owing to the inherent dynamics, size, and instability of RNA, its structure determination remains challenging. Methods such as NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, and cryo-electron microscopy can provide high-resolution structures; however, their limitations make structure determination, even for small RNAs, cumbersome, if at all possible. Although at a low resolution, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) has proven valuable in advancing structure determination of RNAs as a complementary method, which is also applicable to large-sized RNAs. Here, we review the technological and methodological advancements of RNA SAXS. We provide examples of the powerful inclusion of SAXS in structural biology and discuss possible future applications to large RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Niklas Tants
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Molecular Biosciences and Biomagnetic Resonance Centre (BMRZ), Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andreas Schlundt
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Molecular Biosciences and Biomagnetic Resonance Centre (BMRZ), Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt, Germany
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2
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Timmermann S, Anthuparambil ND, Girelli A, Begam N, Kowalski M, Retzbach S, Senft MD, Akhundzadeh MS, Poggemann HF, Moron M, Hiremath A, Gutmüller D, Dargasz M, Öztürk Ö, Paulus M, Westermeier F, Sprung M, Ragulskaya A, Zhang F, Schreiber F, Gutt C. X-ray driven and intrinsic dynamics in protein gels. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11048. [PMID: 37422480 PMCID: PMC10329714 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38059-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We use X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy to investigate how structure and dynamics of egg white protein gels are affected by X-ray dose and dose rate. We find that both, changes in structure and beam-induced dynamics, depend on the viscoelastic properties of the gels with soft gels prepared at low temperatures being more sensitive to beam-induced effects. Soft gels can be fluidized by X-ray doses of a few kGy with a crossover from stress relaxation dynamics (Kohlrausch-Williams-Watts exponents [Formula: see text] to 2) to typical dynamical heterogeneous behavior ([Formula: see text]1) while the high temperature egg white gels are radiation-stable up to doses of 15 kGy with [Formula: see text]. For all gel samples we observe a crossover from equilibrium dynamics to beam induced motion upon increasing X-ray fluence and determine the resulting fluence threshold values [Formula: see text]. Surprisingly small threshold values of [Formula: see text] s[Formula: see text] nm[Formula: see text] can drive the dynamics in the soft gels while for stronger gels this threshold is increased to [Formula: see text] s[Formula: see text] nm[Formula: see text]. We explain our observations with the viscoelastic properties of the materials and can connect the threshold dose for structural beam damage with the dynamic properties of beam-induced motion. Our results suggest that soft viscoelastic materials can display pronounced X-ray driven motion even for low X-ray fluences. This induced motion is not detectable by static scattering as it appears at dose values well below the static damage threshold. We show that intrinsic sample dynamics can be separated from X-ray driven motion by measuring the fluence dependence of the dynamical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Timmermann
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, Walter-Flex-Str. 3, 57072, Siegen, Germany.
| | - Nimmi Das Anthuparambil
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, Walter-Flex-Str. 3, 57072, Siegen, Germany
- Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Notkestr. 85, 22607, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anita Girelli
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nafisa Begam
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marvin Kowalski
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, Walter-Flex-Str. 3, 57072, Siegen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Retzbach
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Maximilian Darius Senft
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | | | - Marc Moron
- Fakultät Physik/DELTA, TU Dortmund, Maria-Goeppert-Mayer-Str. 2, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Anusha Hiremath
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Dennis Gutmüller
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michelle Dargasz
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, Walter-Flex-Str. 3, 57072, Siegen, Germany
| | - Özgül Öztürk
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, Walter-Flex-Str. 3, 57072, Siegen, Germany
| | - Michael Paulus
- Fakultät Physik/DELTA, TU Dortmund, Maria-Goeppert-Mayer-Str. 2, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Fabian Westermeier
- Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Notkestr. 85, 22607, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Sprung
- Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Notkestr. 85, 22607, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anastasia Ragulskaya
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Fajun Zhang
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Frank Schreiber
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christian Gutt
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, Walter-Flex-Str. 3, 57072, Siegen, Germany.
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3
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Reiser M, Girelli A, Ragulskaya A, Das S, Berkowicz S, Bin M, Ladd-Parada M, Filianina M, Poggemann HF, Begam N, Akhundzadeh MS, Timmermann S, Randolph L, Chushkin Y, Seydel T, Boesenberg U, Hallmann J, Möller J, Rodriguez-Fernandez A, Rosca R, Schaffer R, Scholz M, Shayduk R, Zozulya A, Madsen A, Schreiber F, Zhang F, Perakis F, Gutt C. Resolving molecular diffusion and aggregation of antibody proteins with megahertz X-ray free-electron laser pulses. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5528. [PMID: 36130930 PMCID: PMC9490738 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33154-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) with megahertz repetition rate can provide novel insights into structural dynamics of biological macromolecule solutions. However, very high dose rates can lead to beam-induced dynamics and structural changes due to radiation damage. Here, we probe the dynamics of dense antibody protein (Ig-PEG) solutions using megahertz X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (MHz-XPCS) at the European XFEL. By varying the total dose and dose rate, we identify a regime for measuring the motion of proteins in their first coordination shell, quantify XFEL-induced effects such as driven motion, and map out the extent of agglomeration dynamics. The results indicate that for average dose rates below 1.06 kGy μs-1 in a time window up to 10 μs, it is possible to capture the protein dynamics before the onset of beam induced aggregation. We refer to this approach as correlation before aggregation and demonstrate that MHz-XPCS bridges an important spatio-temporal gap in measurement techniques for biological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Reiser
- Department of Physics, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm University, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Anita Girelli
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Anastasia Ragulskaya
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sudipta Das
- Department of Physics, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm University, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sharon Berkowicz
- Department of Physics, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm University, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maddalena Bin
- Department of Physics, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm University, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marjorie Ladd-Parada
- Department of Physics, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm University, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mariia Filianina
- Department of Physics, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm University, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna-Friederike Poggemann
- Department of Physics, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm University, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden.,Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nafisa Begam
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Sonja Timmermann
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, Walter-Flex-Strasse 3, 57072, Siegen, Germany
| | - Lisa Randolph
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, Walter-Flex-Strasse 3, 57072, Siegen, Germany
| | - Yuriy Chushkin
- ESRF - The European Synchrotron, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, CS 40220, 38043, Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Tilo Seydel
- Institut Laue-Langevin, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, CS 20156, 38042, Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Ulrike Boesenberg
- European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, 22869, Schenefeld, Germany
| | - Jörg Hallmann
- European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, 22869, Schenefeld, Germany
| | - Johannes Möller
- European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, 22869, Schenefeld, Germany
| | | | - Robert Rosca
- European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, 22869, Schenefeld, Germany
| | - Robert Schaffer
- European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, 22869, Schenefeld, Germany
| | - Markus Scholz
- European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, 22869, Schenefeld, Germany
| | - Roman Shayduk
- European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, 22869, Schenefeld, Germany
| | - Alexey Zozulya
- European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, 22869, Schenefeld, Germany
| | - Anders Madsen
- European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, 22869, Schenefeld, Germany
| | - Frank Schreiber
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Fajun Zhang
- Institut für Angewandte Physik, Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Fivos Perakis
- Department of Physics, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm University, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Christian Gutt
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, Walter-Flex-Strasse 3, 57072, Siegen, Germany.
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4
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Gillilan RE. High-pressure SAXS, deep life, and extreme biophysics. Methods Enzymol 2022; 677:323-355. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2022.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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5
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Engstrom T, Clinger JA, Spoth KA, Clarke OB, Closs DS, Jayne R, Apker BA, Thorne RE. High-resolution single-particle cryo-EM of samples vitrified in boiling nitro-gen. IUCRJ 2021; 8:867-877. [PMID: 34804541 PMCID: PMC8562666 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252521008095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Based on work by Dubochet and others in the 1980s and 1990s, samples for single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) have been vitrified using ethane, propane or ethane/propane mixtures. These liquid cryogens have a large difference between their melting and boiling temperatures and so can absorb substantial heat without formation of an insulating vapor layer adjacent to a cooling sample. However, ethane and propane are flammable, they must be liquified in liquid nitro-gen immediately before cryo-EM sample preparation, and cryocooled samples must be transferred to liquid nitro-gen for storage, complicating workflows and increasing the chance of sample damage during handling. Experiments over the last 15 years have shown that cooling rates required to vitrify pure water are only ∼250 000 K s-1, at the low end of earlier estimates, and that the dominant factor that has limited cooling rates of small samples in liquid nitro-gen is sample precooling in cold gas present above the liquid cryogen surface, not the Leidenfrost effect. Using an automated cryocooling instrument developed for cryocrystallography that combines high plunge speeds with efficient removal of cold gas, we show that single-particle cryo-EM samples on commercial grids can be routinely vitrified using only boiling nitro-gen and obtain apoferritin datasets and refined structures with 2.65 Å resolution. The use of liquid nitro-gen as the primary coolant may allow manual and automated workflows to be simplified and may reduce sample stresses that contribute to beam-induced motion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Katherine A. Spoth
- Cornell Center for Materials Research, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Oliver B. Clarke
- Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | | | - Richard Jayne
- MiTeGen, LLC, PO Box 3867, Ithaca, NY 14850-3867, USA
| | | | - Robert E. Thorne
- MiTeGen, LLC, PO Box 3867, Ithaca, NY 14850-3867, USA
- Physics Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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6
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Stachowski TR, Snell ME, Snell EH. A SAXS-based approach to rationally evaluate radical scavengers - toward eliminating radiation damage in solution and crystallographic studies. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2021; 28:1309-1320. [PMID: 34475280 PMCID: PMC8415334 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577521004045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
X-ray-based techniques are a powerful tool in structural biology but the radiation-induced chemistry that results can be detrimental and may mask an accurate structural understanding. In the crystallographic case, cryocooling has been employed as a successful mitigation strategy but also has its limitations including the trapping of non-biological structural states. Crystallographic and solution studies performed at physiological temperatures can reveal otherwise hidden but relevant conformations, but are limited by their increased susceptibility to radiation damage. In this case, chemical additives that scavenge the species generated by radiation can mitigate damage but are not always successful and the mechanisms are often unclear. Using a protein designed to undergo a large-scale structural change from breakage of a disulfide bond, radiation damage can be monitored with small-angle X-ray scattering. Using this, we have quantitatively evaluated how three scavengers commonly used in crystallographic experiments - sodium nitrate, cysteine, and ascorbic acid - perform in solution at 10°C. Sodium nitrate was the most effective scavenger and completely inhibited fragmentation of the disulfide bond at a lower concentration (500 µM) compared with cysteine (∼5 mM) while ascorbic acid performed best at 5 mM but could only reduce fragmentation by ∼75% after a total accumulated dose of 792 Gy. The relative effectiveness of each scavenger matches their reported affinities for solvated electrons. Saturating concentrations of each scavenger shifted fragmentation from first order to a zeroth-order process, perhaps indicating the direct contribution of photoabsorption. The SAXS-based method can detect damage at X-ray doses far lower than those accessible crystallographically, thereby providing a detailed picture of scavenger processes. The solution results are also in close agreement with what is known about scavenger performance and mechanism in a crystallographic setting and suggest that a link can be made between the damage phenomenon in the two scenarios. Therefore, our engineered approach might provide a platform for more systematic and comprehensive screening of radioprotectants that can directly inform mitigation strategies for both solution and crystallographic experiments, while also clarifying fundamental radiation damage mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R. Stachowski
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, 700 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
- Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, 665 Elm Street, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Mary E. Snell
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, 700 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Edward H. Snell
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, 700 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
- Materials Design and Innovation, State University at New York at Buffalo, 700 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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7
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Lurio LB, Thurston GM, Zhang Q, Narayanan S, Dufresne EM. Use of continuous sample translation to reduce radiation damage for XPCS studies of protein diffusion. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2021; 28:490-498. [PMID: 33650561 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577521000035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
An experimental setup to measure X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy during continuous sample translation is presented and its effectiveness as a means to avoid sample damage in dynamics studies of protein diffusion is evaluated. X-ray damage from focused coherent synchrotron radiation remains below tolerable levels as long as the sample is translated through the beam sufficiently quickly. Here it is shown that it is possible to separate sample dynamics from the effects associated with the transit of the sample through the beam. By varying the sample translation rate, the damage threshold level, Dthresh = 1.8 kGy, for when beam damage begins to modify the dynamics under the conditions used, is also determined. Signal-to-noise ratios, Rsn ≥ 20, are obtained down to the shortest delay times of 20 µs. The applicability of this method of data collection to the next generation of multi-bend achromat synchrotron sources is discussed and it is shown that sub-microsecond dynamics should be obtainable on protein samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence B Lurio
- Department of Physics, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA
| | - George M Thurston
- School of Physics and Astronomy, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY 14623, USA
| | - Qingteng Zhang
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Suresh Narayanan
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Eric M Dufresne
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
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8
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Perakis F, Gutt C. Towards molecular movies with X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2021; 22:19443-19453. [PMID: 32870200 DOI: 10.1039/d0cp03551c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In this perspective article we highlight research opportunities and challenges in probing structural dynamics of molecular systems using X-ray Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (XPCS). The development of new X-ray sources, such as 4th generation storage rings and X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs), provides promising new insights into molecular motion. Employing XPCS at these sources allows to capture a very broad range of timescales and lengthscales, spanning from femtoseconds to minutes and atomic scales to the mesoscale. Here, we discuss the scientific questions that can be addressed with these novel tools for two prominent examples: the dynamics of proteins in biomolecular condensates and the dynamics of supercooled water. Finally, we provide practical tips for designing and estimating feasibility of XPCS experiments as well as on detecting and mitigating radiation damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fivos Perakis
- Department of Physics, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm University, S-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Christian Gutt
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, D-57072 Siegen, Germany.
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9
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Rai DK, Gillilan RE, Huang Q, Miller R, Ting E, Lazarev A, Tate MW, Gruner SM. High-pressure small-angle X-ray scattering cell for biological solutions and soft materials. J Appl Crystallogr 2021; 54:111-122. [PMID: 33841059 PMCID: PMC7941318 DOI: 10.1107/s1600576720014752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Pressure is a fundamental thermodynamic parameter controlling the behavior of biological macromolecules. Pressure affects protein denaturation, kinetic parameters of enzymes, ligand binding, membrane permeability, ion trans-duction, expression of genetic information, viral infectivity, protein association and aggregation, and chemical processes. In many cases pressure alters the molecular shape. Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is a primary method to determine the shape and size of macromolecules. However, relatively few SAXS cells described in the literature are suitable for use at high pressures and with biological materials. Described here is a novel high-pressure SAXS sample cell that is suitable for general facility use by prioritization of ease of sample loading, temperature control, mechanical stability and X-ray background minimization. Cell operation at 14 keV is described, providing a q range of 0.01 < q < 0.7 Å-1, pressures of 0-400 MPa and an achievable temperature range of 0-80°C. The high-pressure SAXS cell has recently been commissioned on the ID7A beamline at the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source and is available to users on a peer-reviewed proposal basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durgesh K. Rai
- Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Richard E. Gillilan
- Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Qingqiu Huang
- Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Robert Miller
- Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Edmund Ting
- Pressure BioSciences Inc., South Easton, MA 02375, USA
| | | | - Mark W. Tate
- Laboratory of Atomic and Solid State Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Sol M. Gruner
- Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Laboratory of Atomic and Solid State Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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10
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Ziegler SJ, Mallinson SJ, St. John PC, Bomble YJ. Advances in integrative structural biology: Towards understanding protein complexes in their cellular context. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 19:214-225. [PMID: 33425253 PMCID: PMC7772369 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.11.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Microorganisms rely on protein interactions to transmit signals, react to stimuli, and grow. One of the best ways to understand these protein interactions is through structural characterization. However, in the past, structural knowledge was limited to stable, high-affinity complexes that could be crystallized. Recent developments in structural biology have revolutionized how protein interactions are characterized. The combination of multiple techniques, known as integrative structural biology, has provided insight into how large protein complexes interact in their native environment. In this mini-review, we describe the past, present, and potential future of integrative structural biology as a tool for characterizing protein interactions in their cellular context.
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Key Words
- CLEM, correlated light and electron microscopy
- Crosslinking mass spectrometry
- Cryo-electron microscopy
- Cryo-electron tomography
- EPR, electron paramagnetic resonance
- FRET, Forster resonance energy transfer
- ISB, Integrative structural biology
- Integrative structural biology
- ML, machine learning
- MR, molecular replacement
- MSAs, multiple sequence alignments
- MX, macromolecular crystallography
- NMR, nuclear magnetic resonance
- PDB, Protein Data Bank
- Protein docking
- Protein structure prediction
- Quinary interactions
- SAD, single-wavelength anomalous dispersion
- SANS, small angle neutron scattering
- SAXS, small angle X-ray scattering
- X-ray crystallography
- XL-MS, cross-linking mass spectrometry
- cryo-EM SPA, cryo-EM single particle analysis
- cryo-EM, cryo-electron microscopy
- cryo-ET, cryo-electron tomography
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J. Ziegler
- Biosciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, CO 80401, USA
| | - Sam J.B. Mallinson
- Biosciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, CO 80401, USA
| | - Peter C. St. John
- Biosciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, CO 80401, USA
| | - Yannick J. Bomble
- Biosciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, CO 80401, USA
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11
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Castellví A, Pascual-Izarra C, Crosas E, Malfois M, Juanhuix J. Improving data quality and expanding BioSAXS experiments to low-molecular-weight and low-concentration protein samples. ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION D-STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2020; 76:971-981. [PMID: 33021499 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798320010700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The addition of compounds to scavenge the radical species produced during biological small-angle X-ray scattering (BioSAXS) experiments is a common strategy to reduce the effects of radiation damage and produce better quality data. As almost half of the experiments leading to structures deposited in the SASBDB database used scavengers, finding potent scavengers would be advantageous for many experiments. Here, four compounds, three nucleosides and one nitrogenous base, are presented which can act as very effective radical-scavenging additives and increase the critical dose by up to 20 times without altering the stability or reducing the contrast of the tested protein solutions. The efficacy of these scavengers is higher than those commonly used in the field to date, as verified for lysozyme solutions at various concentrations from 7.0 to 0.5 mg ml-1. The compounds are also very efficient at mitigating radiation damage to four proteins with molecular weights ranging from 7 to 240 kDa and pH values from 3 to 8, with the extreme case being catalase at 6.7 mg ml-1, with a scavenging factor exceeding 100. These scavengers can therefore be instrumental in expanding BioSAXS to low-molecular-weight and low-concentration protein samples that were previously inaccessible owing to poor data quality. It is also demonstrated that an increase in the critical dose in standard BioSAXS experiments leads to an increment in the retrieved information, in particular at higher angles, and thus to higher resolution of the model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Castellví
- Experiments Division, ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la Llum 2-26, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08290 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Pascual-Izarra
- Experiments Division, ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la Llum 2-26, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08290 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eva Crosas
- DESY Photon Science, Notkestrasse 85, 08290 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc Malfois
- Experiments Division, ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la Llum 2-26, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08290 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judith Juanhuix
- Experiments Division, ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la Llum 2-26, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08290 Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Sønderby P, Söderberg C, Frankær CG, Peters G, Bukrinski JT, Labrador A, Plivelic TS, Harris P. Concentrated protein solutions investigated using acoustic levitation and small-angle X-ray scattering. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2020; 27:396-404. [PMID: 32153278 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577519016977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
An acoustically levitated droplet has been used to collect synchrotron SAXS data on human serum albumin protein solutions up to a protein concentration of 400 mg ml-1. A careful selection of experiments allows for fast data collection of a large amount of data, spanning a protein concentration/solvent concentration space with limited sample consumption (down to 3 µL per experiment) and few measurements. The data analysis shows data of high quality that are reproducible and comparable with data from standard flow-through capillary-based experiments. Furthermore, using this methodology, it is possible to achieve concentrations that would not be accessible by conventional cells. The protein concentration and ionic strength parameter space diagram may be covered easily and the amount of protein sample is significantly reduced (by a factor of 100 in this work). Used in routine measurements, the benefits in terms of protein cost and time spent are very significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pernille Sønderby
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet B207, DK-2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Christian G Frankær
- Deparment of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Günther Peters
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet B207, DK-2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Ana Labrador
- MAX IV Laboratory, Lund University, PO Box 118, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Tomás S Plivelic
- MAX IV Laboratory, Lund University, PO Box 118, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Pernille Harris
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet B207, DK-2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
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13
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Möller J, Sprung M, Madsen A, Gutt C. X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy of protein dynamics at nearly diffraction-limited storage rings. IUCRJ 2019; 6:794-803. [PMID: 31576213 PMCID: PMC6760446 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252519008273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
This study explores the possibility of measuring the dynamics of proteins in solution using X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) at nearly diffraction-limited storage rings (DLSRs). We calculate the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of XPCS experiments from a concentrated lysozyme solution at the length scale of the hydrodynamic radius of the protein molecule. We take into account limitations given by the critical X-ray dose and find expressions for the SNR as a function of beam size, sample-to-detector distance and photon energy. Specifically, we show that the combined increase in coherent flux and coherence lengths at the DLSR PETRA IV yields an increase in SNR of more than one order of magnitude. The resulting SNR values indicate that XPCS experiments of biological macromolecules on nanometre length scales will become feasible with the advent of a new generation of synchrotron sources. Our findings provide valuable input for the design and construction of future XPCS beamlines at DLSRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Möller
- European X-ray Free Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, D-22869 Schenefeld Germany
| | - Michael Sprung
- Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron DESY, D-22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anders Madsen
- European X-ray Free Electron Laser Facility, Holzkoppel 4, D-22869 Schenefeld Germany
| | - Christian Gutt
- Department Physik, Universität Siegen, D-57072 Siegen, Germany
- Correspondence e-mail:
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14
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Taube M, Pietralik Z, Szymanska A, Szutkowski K, Clemens D, Grubb A, Kozak M. The domain swapping of human cystatin C induced by synchrotron radiation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8548. [PMID: 31189973 PMCID: PMC6561922 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44811-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Domain swapping is observed for many proteins with flexible conformations. This phenomenon is often associated with the development of conformational diseases. Importantly, domain swapping has been observed for human cystatin C (HCC), a protein capable of forming amyloid deposits in brain arteries. In this study, the ability of short exposure to high-intensity X-ray radiation to induce domain swapping in solutions of several HCC variants (wild-type HCC and V57G, V57D, V57N, V57P, and L68V mutants) was determined. The study was conducted using time-resolved small-angle X-ray scattering (TR-SAXS) synchrotron radiation. The protein samples were also analysed using small-angle neutron scattering and NMR diffusometry. Exposing HCC to synchrotron radiation (over 50 ms) led to a gradual increase in the dimeric fraction, and for exposures longer than 150 ms, the oligomer fraction was dominant. In contrast, the non-irradiated protein solutions, apart from the V57P variant, were predominantly monomeric (e.g., V57G) or in monomer/dimer equilibrium. This work might represent the first observation of domain swapping induced by high-intensity X-rays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Taube
- Department of Macromolecular Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 2, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
- Joint Laboratory for SAXS Studies, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 2, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Pietralik
- Department of Macromolecular Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 2, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Aneta Szymanska
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Kosma Szutkowski
- Department of Macromolecular Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 2, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
- NanoBioMedical Centre at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Wszechnicy Piastowskiej 3, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Daniel Clemens
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie Lise-Meitner-Campus Hahn-Meitner-Platz 1, 14109, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anders Grubb
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Lund University Hospital, S-22185, Lund, Sweden
| | - Maciej Kozak
- Department of Macromolecular Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 2, 61-614, Poznań, Poland.
- Joint Laboratory for SAXS Studies, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 2, 61-614, Poznań, Poland.
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15
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Chen W, Liu D, Li L. Multiscale characterization of semicrystalline polymeric materials by synchrotron radiation X‐ray and neutron scattering. POLYMER CRYSTALLIZATION 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/pcr2.10043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- National Synchrotron Radiation Lab, CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Film University of Science and Technology of China Hefei China
| | - Dong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Neutron Physics and Institute of Nuclear Physics and Chemistry (INPC) China Academy of Engineering Physics (CAEP) Mianyang China
| | - Liangbin Li
- National Synchrotron Radiation Lab, CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Film University of Science and Technology of China Hefei China
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16
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Wang C, Lin Y, Bougie D, Gillilan RE. Predicting data quality in biological X-ray solution scattering. ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION D-STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2018; 74:727-738. [PMID: 30082508 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798318005004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Biological small-angle X-ray solution scattering (BioSAXS) is now widely used to gain information on biomolecules in the solution state. Often, however, it is not obvious in advance whether a particular sample will scatter strongly enough to give useful data to draw conclusions under practically achievable solution conditions. Conformational changes that appear to be large may not always produce scattering curves that are distinguishable from each other at realistic concentrations and exposure times. Emerging technologies such as time-resolved SAXS (TR-SAXS) pose additional challenges owing to small beams and short sample path lengths. Beamline optics vary in brilliance and degree of background scatter, and major upgrades and improvements to sources promise to expand the reach of these methods. Computations are developed to estimate BioSAXS sample intensity at a more detailed level than previous approaches, taking into account flux, energy, sample thickness, window material, instrumental background, detector efficiency, solution conditions and other parameters. The results are validated with calibrated experiments using standard proteins on four different beamlines with various fluxes, energies and configurations. The ability of BioSAXS to statistically distinguish a variety of conformational movements under continuous-flow time-resolved conditions is then computed on a set of matched structure pairs drawn from the Database of Macromolecular Motions (http://molmovdb.org). The feasibility of experiments is ranked according to sample consumption, a quantity that varies by over two orders of magnitude for the set of structures. In addition to photon flux, the calculations suggest that window scattering and choice of wavelength are also important factors given the short sample path lengths common in such setups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenzheng Wang
- DellEMC Shanghai COE, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuexia Lin
- Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Devin Bougie
- CLASSE (Cornell Laboratory for Accelerator-based ScienceS and Education), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Richard E Gillilan
- MacCHESS (Macromolecular Diffraction Facility at CHESS), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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17
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Schroer MA, Blanchet CE, Gruzinov AY, Gräwert MA, Brennich ME, Hajizadeh NR, Jeffries CM, Svergun DI. Smaller capillaries improve the small-angle X-ray scattering signal and sample consumption for biomacromolecular solutions. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2018; 25:1113-1122. [PMID: 29979172 PMCID: PMC6038601 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577518007907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
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 experiment. Here it is shown that, for biological solution SAXS, capillaries with smaller diameters than those calculated from simple scattering/absorption criteria allow for a better utilization of the available volumes of radiation-sensitive samples. This is demonstrated by comparing two capillary diameters di (di = 1.7 mm, close to optimal for 10 keV; and di = 0.9 mm, which is nominally sub-optimal) applied to study different protein solutions at various flow rates. The use of the smaller capillaries ultimately allows one to collect higher-quality SAXS data from the limited amounts of purified biological macromolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin A. Schroer
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Clement E. Blanchet
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andrey Yu. Gruzinov
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Melissa A. Gräwert
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martha E. Brennich
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Grenoble Outstation, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Nelly R. Hajizadeh
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Cy M. Jeffries
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dmitri I. Svergun
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Outstation c/o DESY, Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
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18
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Nicolas JD, Bernhardt M, Schlick SF, Tiburcy M, Zimmermann WH, Khan A, Markus A, Alves F, Toischer K, Salditt T. X-ray diffraction imaging of cardiac cells and tissue. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 144:151-165. [PMID: 29914693 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2018.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
With the development of advanced focusing optics for x-rays, we can now use x-ray beams with spot sizes in the micro- or nanometer range to scan cells and large areas of tissues and continuously record the diffraction signals. From this data, x-ray scattering maps or so-called x-ray darkfield images are computed showing how different types of cells or regions of tissues differ in their diffraction intensity. At the same time a diffraction pattern is available for each scan point which encodes the local nanostructure, averaged over many contributing constituents illuminated by the beam. In this work we have exploited these new capabilities of scanning x-ray diffraction to investigate cardiac muscle cells as well as cardiac tissue. We give examples of how cardiac cells, especially living, cultured cells, can be prepared to be compatible with the instrumentation constraints of nano- or micro-diffraction instruments. Furthermore, we show how the developmental stage, ranging from neonatal to adult cells, as well as the final preparation state of the cardiomyocytes influences the recorded scattering signal and how these diffraction signals compare to the structure of a fully developed cardiac muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-David Nicolas
- Universität Göttingen, Institut für Röntgenphysik, Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marten Bernhardt
- Universität Göttingen, Institut für Röntgenphysik, Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susanne F Schlick
- Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Malte Tiburcy
- Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Wolfram-Hubertus Zimmermann
- Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, Oudenarder Straße 16, 13347 Berlin, Germany
| | - Amara Khan
- Max-Planck-Institut für Experimentelle Medizin, Hermann-Rein-Straße 3, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andrea Markus
- Max-Planck-Institut für Experimentelle Medizin, Hermann-Rein-Straße 3, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Frauke Alves
- Max-Planck-Institut für Experimentelle Medizin, Hermann-Rein-Straße 3, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Karl Toischer
- Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Klinik für Kardiologie und Pneumologie, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tim Salditt
- Universität Göttingen, Institut für Röntgenphysik, Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.
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19
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Tyree TJ, Dan R, Thorne RE. Density and electron density of aqueous cryoprotectant solutions at cryogenic temperatures for optimized cryoprotection and diffraction contrast. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2018; 74:471-479. [PMID: 29717718 PMCID: PMC5930352 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798318003078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The glass-phase densities at T = 77 K of aqueous solutions of the common cryoprotective agents (CPAs) methanol, ethanol, 2-propanol, glycerol, 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol (MPD), ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol 200 and polypropylene glycol 425 were measured as a function of CPA concentration. Individual drops with volumes as small as ∼65 pl were rapidly cooled to achieve the glass phase, and their densities at T = 77 K were determined by cryoflotation. These densities were used to determine the glass-phase electron density of each solution and its volume thermal contraction between room temperature and 77 K. When combined with data for the critical cooling rates required to achieve the glass phase versus CPA concentration, these yield alternative measures of cryoprotectant effectiveness. These reference data will aid in minimizing sample stresses and mechanical damage in cryocrystallography, in cryogenic temperature X-ray imaging and in vitrification-based cryopreservation protocols, and in maximizing electron-density contrast between cryoprotectant solutions and biomolecules in cryogenic temperature small-angle X-ray scattering experiments and cryo-electron microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ritwik Dan
- Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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20
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Recent developments in small-angle X-ray scattering and hybrid method approaches for biomacromolecular solutions. Emerg Top Life Sci 2018; 2:69-79. [PMID: 33525782 DOI: 10.1042/etls20170138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) has become a streamline method to characterize biological macromolecules, from small peptides to supramolecular complexes, in near-native solutions. Modern SAXS requires limited amounts of purified material, without the need for labelling, crystallization, or freezing. Dedicated beamlines at modern synchrotron sources yield high-quality data within or below several milliseconds of exposure time and are highly automated, allowing for rapid structural screening under different solutions and ambient conditions but also for time-resolved studies of biological processes. The advanced data analysis methods allow one to meaningfully interpret the scattering data from monodisperse systems, from transient complexes as well as flexible and heterogeneous systems in terms of structural models. Especially powerful are hybrid approaches utilizing SAXS with high-resolution structural techniques, but also with biochemical, biophysical, and computational methods. Here, we review the recent developments in the experimental SAXS practice and in analysis methods with a specific focus on the joint use of SAXS with complementary methods.
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21
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Hémonnot CYJ, Köster S. Imaging of Biological Materials and Cells by X-ray Scattering and Diffraction. ACS NANO 2017; 11:8542-8559. [PMID: 28787573 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.7b03447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Cells and biological materials are large objects in comparison to the size of internal components such as organelles and proteins. An understanding of the functions of these nanoscale elements is key to elucidating cellular function. In this review, we describe the advances in X-ray scattering and diffraction techniques for imaging biological systems at the nanoscale. We present a number of principal technological advances in X-ray optics and development of sample environments. We identify radiation damage as one of the most severe challenges in the field, thus rendering the dose an important parameter when putting different X-ray methods in perspective. Furthermore, we describe different successful approaches, including scanning and full-field techniques, along with prominent examples. Finally, we present a few recent studies that combined several techniques in one experiment in order to collect highly complementary data for a multidimensional sample characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clément Y J Hémonnot
- Institute for X-Ray Physics, University of Goettingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- Northwestern Argonne Institute of Science and Engineering, Northwestern University , 9700 South Cass Avenue, Argonne, Illinois 60439, United States
- Argonne National Laboratory , 9700 South Cass Avenue, Argonne, Illinois 60439, United States
| | - Sarah Köster
- Institute for X-Ray Physics, University of Goettingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
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22
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Complementary uses of small angle X-ray scattering and X-ray crystallography. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2017; 1865:1623-1630. [PMID: 28743534 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2017.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Most proteins function within networks and, therefore, protein interactions are central to protein function. Although stable macromolecular machines have been extensively studied, dynamic protein interactions remain poorly understood. Small-angle X-ray scattering probes the size, shape and dynamics of proteins in solution at low resolution and can be used to study samples in a large range of molecular weights. Therefore, it has emerged as a powerful technique to study the structure and dynamics of biomolecular systems and bridge fragmented information obtained using high-resolution techniques. Here we review how small-angle X-ray scattering can be combined with other structural biology techniques to study protein dynamics. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Biophysics in Canada, edited by Lewis Kay, John Baenziger, Albert Berghuis and Peter Tieleman.
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23
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Shen C, Julius EF, Tyree TJ, Dan R, Moreau DW, Thorne R. Measuring the Densities of Aqueous Glasses at Cryogenic Temperatures. J Vis Exp 2017:55761. [PMID: 28715388 PMCID: PMC5608520 DOI: 10.3791/55761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We demonstrate a method for determining the vitreous phase cryogenic temperature densities of aqueous mixtures, and other samples that require rapid cooling, to prepare the desired cryogenic temperature phase. Microliter to picoliter size drops are cooled by projection into a liquid nitrogen-argon (N2-Ar) mixture. The cryogenic temperature phase of the drop is evaluated using a visual assay that correlates with X-ray diffraction measurements. The density of the liquid N2-Ar mixture is adjusted by adding N2 or Ar until the drop becomes neutrally buoyant. The density of this mixture and thus of the drop is determined using a test mass and Archimedes principle. With appropriate care in drop preparation, management of gas above the liquid cryogen mixture to minimize icing, and regular mixing of the cryogenic mixture to prevent density stratification and phase separation, densities accurate to <0.5% of drops as small as 50 pL can readily be determined. Measurements on aqueous cryoprotectant mixtures provide insight into cryoprotectant action, and provide quantitative data to facilitate thermal contraction matching in biological cryopreservation.
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24
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Spill YG, Nilges M. SAS profile correlations reveal SAS hierarchical nature and information content. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177309. [PMID: 28493950 PMCID: PMC5426712 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In structural biology, Small-Angle Scattering experiments (SAS) are unique, because although they provide low resolution data, they can be performed in closer-to-native conditions than those arising in X-Ray crystallography. A number of questions on SAS, however, remain unsolved, particularly in the light of modelling ensembles of conformers in solution. In this article, we study the ensemble average and covariance of SAS profiles analytically. Using this ensemble covariance, we demonstrate the hierarchical nature of SAS profiles. Furthermore, we show that the information content is not uniform and reaches its maximum in the intermediate q range. The arguments are generalized using microsecond-scale molecular dynamics trajectories of the lysozyme and on an ensemble of the intrinsically disordered protein p15PAF. We show that for highly flexible systems, the SAS profile is a representation of the ensemble of conformers in solution, and not that of one conformer in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick G. Spill
- Structural Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry, Institut Pasteur, 25 rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Michael Nilges
- Structural Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry, Institut Pasteur, 25 rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
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25
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X-Ray Micro- and Nanodiffraction Imaging on Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Differentiated Cells. Biophys J 2017; 110:680-690. [PMID: 26840732 PMCID: PMC4744168 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2015.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult human mesenchymal stem cells show structural rearrangements of their cytoskeletal network during mechanically induced differentiation toward various cell types. In particular, the alignment of acto-myosin fibers is cell fate-dependent and can serve as an early morphological marker of differentiation. Quantification of such nanostructures on a mesoscopic scale requires high-resolution imaging techniques. Here, we use small- angle x-ray scattering with a spot size in the micro- and submicrometer range as a high-resolution and label-free imaging technique to reveal structural details of stem cells and differentiated cell types. We include principal component analysis into an automated empirical analysis scheme that allows the local characterization of oriented structures. Results on freeze-dried samples lead to quantitative structural information for all cell lines tested: differentiated cells reveal pronounced structural orientation and a relatively intense overall diffraction signal, whereas naive human mesenchymal stem cells lack these features. Our data support the hypothesis of stem cells establishing ordered structures along their differentiation process.
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26
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Garman EF, Weik M. X-ray radiation damage to biological macromolecules: further insights. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2017; 24:1-6. [PMID: 28009541 DOI: 10.1107/s160057751602018x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite significant progress made over more than 15 years of research, structural biologists are still grappling with the issue of radiation damage suffered by macromolecular crystals which is induced by the resultant radiation chemistry occurring during X-ray diffraction experiments. Further insights into these effects and the possible mitigation strategies for use in both diffraction and SAXS experiments are given in eight papers in this volume. In particular, damage during experimental phasing is addressed, scavengers for SAXS experiments are investigated, microcrystals are imaged, data collection strategies are optimized, specific damage to tyrosine residues is reexamined, and room temperature conformational heterogeneity as a function of dose is explored. The brief summary below puts these papers into perspective relative to other ongoing radiation damage research on macromolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elspeth F Garman
- Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Martin Weik
- Institut de Biologie Structurale, Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, F-38044 Grenoble, France
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27
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Brooks-Bartlett JC, Batters RA, Bury CS, Lowe ED, Ginn HM, Round A, Garman EF. Development of tools to automate quantitative analysis of radiation damage in SAXS experiments. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2017; 24:63-72. [PMID: 28009547 PMCID: PMC5182020 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577516015083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Biological small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is an increasingly popular technique used to obtain nanoscale structural information on macromolecules in solution. However, radiation damage to the samples limits the amount of useful data that can be collected from a single sample. In contrast to the extensive analytical resources available for macromolecular crystallography (MX), there are relatively few tools to quantitate radiation damage for SAXS, some of which require a significant level of manual characterization, with the potential of leading to conflicting results from different studies. Here, computational tools have been developed to automate and standardize radiation damage analysis for SAXS data. RADDOSE-3D, a dose calculation software utility originally written for MX experiments, has been extended to account for the cylindrical geometry of the capillary tube, the liquid composition of the sample and the attenuation of the beam by the capillary material to allow doses to be calculated for many SAXS experiments. Furthermore, a library has been written to visualize and explore the pairwise similarity of frames. The calculated dose for the frame at which three subsequent frames are determined to be dissimilar is defined as the radiation damage onset threshold (RDOT). Analysis of RDOTs has been used to compare the efficacy of radioprotectant compounds to extend the useful lifetime of SAXS samples. Comparison of the RDOTs shows that, for radioprotectant compounds at 5 and 10 mM concentration, glycerol is the most effective compound. However, at 1 and 2 mM concentrations, dithiothreitol (DTT) appears to be most effective. Our newly developed visualization library contains methods that highlight the unusual radiation damage results given by SAXS data collected using higher concentrations of DTT: these observations should pave the way to the development of more sophisticated frame merging strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Charles S. Bury
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Edward D. Lowe
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Helen Mary Ginn
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Adam Round
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Grenoble Outstation, 71 avenue des Martyrs, CS 90181, 38042 Grenoble, France
- SPB/SFX European XFEL, Holzkoppel 4, 22869 Schenefeld, Germany
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Keele University, Staffordshire ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Elspeth F. Garman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
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Crosas E, Castellvi A, Crespo I, Fulla D, Gil-Ortiz F, Fuertes G, Kamma-Lorger CS, Malfois M, Aranda MAG, Juanhuix J. Uridine as a new scavenger for synchrotron-based structural biology techniques. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2017; 24:53-62. [PMID: 28009546 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577516018452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Macromolecular crystallography (MX) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) studies on proteins at synchrotron light sources are commonly limited by the structural damage produced by the intense X-ray beam. Several effects, such as aggregation in protein solutions and global and site-specific damage in crystals, reduce the data quality or even introduce artefacts that can result in a biologically misguiding structure. One strategy to reduce these negative effects is the inclusion of an additive in the buffer solution to act as a free radical scavenger. Here the properties of uridine as a scavenger for both SAXS and MX experiments on lysozyme at room temperature are examined. In MX experiments, upon addition of uridine at 1 M, the critical dose D1/2 is increased by a factor of ∼1.7, a value similar to that obtained in the presence of the most commonly used scavengers such as ascorbate and sodium nitrate. Other figures of merit to assess radiation damage show a similar trend. In SAXS experiments, the scavenging effect of 40 mM uridine is similar to that of 5% v/v glycerol, and greater than 2 mM DTT and 1 mM ascorbic acid. In all cases, the protective effect of uridine is proportional to its concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Crosas
- ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la llum 2-26, 08290 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Albert Castellvi
- ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la llum 2-26, 08290 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isidro Crespo
- ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la llum 2-26, 08290 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Fulla
- ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la llum 2-26, 08290 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernando Gil-Ortiz
- ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la llum 2-26, 08290 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Marc Malfois
- ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la llum 2-26, 08290 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel A G Aranda
- ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la llum 2-26, 08290 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Juanhuix
- ALBA Synchrotron, Carrer de la llum 2-26, 08290 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
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29
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Hémonnot CYJ, Ranke C, Saldanha O, Graceffa R, Hagemann J, Köster S. Following DNA Compaction During the Cell Cycle by X-ray Nanodiffraction. ACS NANO 2016; 10:10661-10670. [PMID: 28024349 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.6b05034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
X-ray imaging of intact biological cells is emerging as a complementary method to visible light or electron microscopy. Owing to the high penetration depth and small wavelength of X-rays, it is possible to resolve subcellular structures at a resolution of a few nanometers. Here, we apply scanning X-ray nanodiffraction in combination with time-lapse bright-field microscopy to nuclei of 3T3 fibroblasts and thus relate the observed structures to specific phases in the cell division cycle. We scan the sample at a step size of 250 nm and analyze the individual diffraction patterns according to a generalized Porod's law. Thus, we obtain information on the aggregation state of the nuclear DNA at a real space resolution on the order of the step size and in parallel structural information on the order of few nanometers. We are able to distinguish nucleoli, heterochromatin, and euchromatin in the nuclei and follow the compaction and decompaction during the cell division cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clément Y J Hémonnot
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Christiane Ranke
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Oliva Saldanha
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Rita Graceffa
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Johannes Hagemann
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Sarah Köster
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, Göttingen 37077, Germany
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Kirby N, Cowieson N, Hawley AM, Mudie ST, McGillivray DJ, Kusel M, Samardzic-Boban V, Ryan TM. Improved radiation dose efficiency in solution SAXS using a sheath flow sample environment. ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION D-STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2016; 72:1254-1266. [PMID: 27917826 PMCID: PMC5137223 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798316017174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Coflow is a new method for delivering radiation-sensitive biological and other solution-based samples to high-brightness X-ray beamlines that exploits laminar flow to ameliorate radiation-damage limitations and provides a host of practical improvements associated with these types of experiments. Radiation damage is a major limitation to synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering analysis of biomacromolecules. Flowing the sample during exposure helps to reduce the problem, but its effectiveness in the laminar-flow regime is limited by slow flow velocity at the walls of sample cells. To overcome this limitation, the coflow method was developed, where the sample flows through the centre of its cell surrounded by a flow of matched buffer. The method permits an order-of-magnitude increase of X-ray incident flux before sample damage, improves measurement statistics and maintains low sample concentration limits. The method also efficiently handles sample volumes of a few microlitres, can increase sample throughput, is intrinsically resistant to capillary fouling by sample and is suited to static samples and size-exclusion chromatography applications. The method unlocks further potential of third-generation synchrotron beamlines to facilitate new and challenging applications in solution scattering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel Kirby
- SAXS/WAXS, Australian Synchrotron, 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Nathan Cowieson
- B21 SAXS, Diamond Light Source Ltd, Hartwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot OX11 0DE, England
| | - Adrian M Hawley
- SAXS/WAXS, Australian Synchrotron, 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Stephen T Mudie
- SAXS/WAXS, Australian Synchrotron, 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Duncan J McGillivray
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Michael Kusel
- Kusel Design, 6 Hambleton Street, Albert Park, Victoria 3206, Australia
| | - Vesna Samardzic-Boban
- SAXS/WAXS, Australian Synchrotron, 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Timothy M Ryan
- SAXS/WAXS, Australian Synchrotron, 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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31
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Ghazal A, Lafleur JP, Mortensen K, Kutter JP, Arleth L, Jensen GV. Recent advances in X-ray compatible microfluidics for applications in soft materials and life sciences. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:4263-4295. [PMID: 27731448 DOI: 10.1039/c6lc00888g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The increasingly narrow and brilliant beams at X-ray facilities reduce the requirements for both sample volume and data acquisition time. This creates new possibilities for the types and number of sample conditions that can be examined but simultaneously increases the demands in terms of sample preparation. Microfluidic-based sample preparation techniques have emerged as elegant alternatives that can be integrated directly into the experimental X-ray setup remedying several shortcomings of more traditional methods. We review the use of microfluidic devices in conjunction with X-ray measurements at synchrotron facilities in the context of 1) mapping large parameter spaces, 2) performing time resolved studies of mixing-induced kinetics, and 3) manipulating/processing samples in ways which are more demanding or not accessible on the macroscale. The review covers the past 15 years and focuses on applications where synchrotron data collection is performed in situ, i.e. directly on the microfluidic platform or on a sample jet from the microfluidic device. Considerations such as the choice of materials and microfluidic designs are addressed. The combination of microfluidic devices and measurements at large scale X-ray facilities is still emerging and far from mature, but it definitely offers an exciting array of new possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aghiad Ghazal
- Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Josiane P Lafleur
- Dept. of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kell Mortensen
- Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Jörg P Kutter
- Dept. of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lise Arleth
- Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Grethe V Jensen
- Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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32
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Costa L, Andriatis A, Brennich M, Teulon JM, Chen SWW, Pellequer JL, Round A. Combined small angle X-ray solution scattering with atomic force microscopy for characterizing radiation damage on biological macromolecules. BMC STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2016; 16:18. [PMID: 27788689 PMCID: PMC5081678 DOI: 10.1186/s12900-016-0068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synchrotron radiation facilities are pillars of modern structural biology. Small-Angle X-ray scattering performed at synchrotron sources is often used to characterize the shape of biological macromolecules. A major challenge with high-energy X-ray beam on such macromolecules is the perturbation of sample due to radiation damage. RESULTS By employing atomic force microscopy, another common technique to determine the shape of biological macromolecules when deposited on flat substrates, we present a protocol to evaluate and characterize consequences of radiation damage. It requires the acquisition of images of irradiated samples at the single molecule level in a timely manner while using minimal amounts of protein. The protocol has been tested on two different molecular systems: a large globular tetremeric enzyme (β-Amylase) and a rod-shape plant virus (tobacco mosaic virus). Radiation damage on the globular enzyme leads to an apparent increase in molecular sizes whereas the effect on the long virus is a breakage into smaller pieces resulting in a decrease of the average long-axis radius. CONCLUSIONS These results show that radiation damage can appear in different forms and strongly support the need to check the effect of radiation damage at synchrotron sources using the presented protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Costa
- ESRF, The European Synchrotron, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38000 France
- Present Address: CBS, Centre de Biochimie Structurale, CNRS UMR 5048-INSERM UMR 1054, 29, Rue de Navacelles, Montpellier, 34090 France
| | - Alexander Andriatis
- ESRF, The European Synchrotron, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38000 France
- MIT, 77 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 02139 MA USA
| | - Martha Brennich
- ESRF, The European Synchrotron, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38000 France
| | - Jean-Marie Teulon
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38044 France
- CNRS, IBS, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38044 France
- CEA, IBS, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, France
| | - Shu-wen W. Chen
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38044 France
- CNRS, IBS, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38044 France
- CEA, IBS, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, France
| | - Jean-Luc Pellequer
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38044 France
- CNRS, IBS, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38044 France
- CEA, IBS, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, France
| | - Adam Round
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38000 France
- Unit for Virus Host-Cell Interactions, Univ. Grenoble Alpes-EMBL-CNRS, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38000 France
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire UK
- Present Address: European XFEL GmbH, Holzkoppel 4, Schenefeld, 22869 Germany
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33
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Hopkins JB, Thorne RE. Quantifying radiation damage in biomolecular small-angle X-ray scattering. J Appl Crystallogr 2016; 49:880-890. [PMID: 27275138 PMCID: PMC4886981 DOI: 10.1107/s1600576716005136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is an increasingly popular technique that provides low-resolution structural information about biological macromolecules in solution. Many of the practical limitations of the technique, such as minimum required sample volume, and of experimental design, such as sample flow cells, are necessary because the biological samples are sensitive to damage from the X-rays. Radiation damage typically manifests as aggregation of the sample, which makes the collected data unreliable. However, there has been little systematic investigation of the most effective methods to reduce damage rates, and results from previous damage studies are not easily compared with results from other beamlines. Here a methodology is provided for quantifying radiation damage in SAXS to provide consistent results between different experiments, experimenters and beamlines. These methods are demonstrated on radiation damage data collected from lysozyme, glucose isomerase and xylanase, and it is found that no single metric is sufficient to describe radiation damage in SAXS for all samples. The radius of gyration, molecular weight and integrated SAXS profile intensity constitute a minimal set of parameters that capture all types of observed behavior. Radiation sensitivities derived from these parameters show a large protein dependence, varying by up to six orders of magnitude between the different proteins tested. This work should enable consistent reporting of radiation damage effects, allowing more systematic studies of the most effective minimization strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert E. Thorne
- Department of Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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Shen C, Julius EF, Tyree TJ, Moreau DW, Atakisi H, Thorne RE. Thermal contraction of aqueous glycerol and ethylene glycol solutions for optimized protein-crystal cryoprotection. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2016; 72:742-52. [PMID: 27303794 PMCID: PMC8493611 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798316005490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The thermal contraction of aqueous cryoprotectant solutions on cooling to cryogenic temperatures is of practical importance in protein cryocrystallography and in biological cryopreservation. In the former case, differential contraction on cooling of protein molecules and their lattice relative to that of the internal and surrounding solvent may lead to crystal damage and the degradation of crystal diffraction properties. Here, the amorphous phase densities of aqueous solutions of glycerol and ethylene glycol at T = 77 K have been determined. Densities with accuracies of <0.5% to concentrations as low as 30%(w/v) were determined by rapidly cooling drops with volumes as small as 70 pl, assessing their optical clarity and measuring their buoyancy in liquid nitrogen-argon solutions. The use of these densities in contraction matching of internal solvent to the available solvent spaces is complicated by several factors, most notably the exclusion of cryoprotectants from protein hydration shells and the expected deviation of the contraction behavior of hydration water from bulk water. The present methods and results will assist in developing rational approaches to cryoprotection and an understanding of solvent behavior in protein crystals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Shen
- Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | | | | | - David W. Moreau
- Physics Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Hakan Atakisi
- Physics Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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35
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Hémonnot CYJ, Reinhardt J, Saldanha O, Patommel J, Graceffa R, Weinhausen B, Burghammer M, Schroer CG, Köster S. X-rays Reveal the Internal Structure of Keratin Bundles in Whole Cells. ACS NANO 2016; 10:3553-3561. [PMID: 26905642 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5b07871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, X-ray imaging of biological cells has emerged as a complementary alternative to fluorescence and electron microscopy. Different techniques were established and successfully applied to macromolecular assemblies and structures in cells. However, while the resolution is reaching the nanometer scale, the dose is increasing. It is essential to develop strategies to overcome or reduce radiation damage. Here we approach this intrinsic problem by combing two different X-ray techniques, namely ptychography and nanodiffraction, in one experiment and on the same sample. We acquire low dose ptychography overview images of whole cells at a resolution of 65 nm. We subsequently record high-resolution nanodiffraction data from regions of interest. By comparing images from the two modalities, we can exclude strong effects of radiation damage on the specimen. From the diffraction data we retrieve quantitative structural information from intracellular bundles of keratin intermediate filaments such as a filament radius of 5 nm, hexagonal geometric arrangement with an interfilament distance of 14 nm and bundle diameters on the order of 70 nm. Thus, we present an appealing combined approach to answer a broad range of questions in soft-matter physics, biophysics and biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clément Y J Hémonnot
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Juliane Reinhardt
- Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron , Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Oliva Saldanha
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jens Patommel
- Institute of Structural Physics, Technische Universität Dresden , Zellescher Weg 16, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Rita Graceffa
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Britta Weinhausen
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility , 71, Avenue des Martyrs, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Manfred Burghammer
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility , 71, Avenue des Martyrs, 38043 Grenoble, France
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Ghent University , Krijgslaan 281, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian G Schroer
- Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron , Notkestrasse 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
- Institute for Nanostructure and Solid State Physics, Department of Physics, University of Hamburg , Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sarah Köster
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen , Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
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36
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Actin bundles cross-linked with α-actinin studied by nanobeam X-ray diffraction. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2015; 45:383-92. [PMID: 26715112 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-015-1107-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We have performed scanning nano-beam small-angle X-ray scattering (nano-SAXS) experiments on in vitro-formed actin filaments cross-linked with [Formula: see text]-actinin. The experimental method combines a high resolution in reciprocal space with a real space resolution as given by the spot-size of the nano-focused X-ray beam, and opens up new opportunities to study local super-molecular structures of actin filaments. In this first proof-of-concept, we show that the local orientation of actin bundles formed by the cross-linking can be visualized by the X-ray darkfield maps. The filament bundles give rise to highly anisotropic diffraction patterns showing distinct streaks perpendicular to the bundle axes. Interestingly, some diffraction patterns exhibit a fine structure in the form of intensity modulations allowing for a more detailed analysis of the order within the bundles. A first empirical quantification of these modulations is included in the present work.
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37
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Affiliation(s)
- Elspeth F. Garman
- Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Martin Weik
- University Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
- CNRS, IBS, Grenoble, France
- CEA, IBS, Grenoble, France
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38
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Mezger M, Roth R, Schröder H, Reichert P, Pontoni D, Reichert H. Solid-liquid interfaces of ionic liquid solutions--Interfacial layering and bulk correlations. J Chem Phys 2015; 142:164707. [PMID: 25933784 DOI: 10.1063/1.4918742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The influence of the polar, aprotic solvent propylene carbonate on the interfacial structure of the ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate on sapphire was investigated by high-energy x-ray reflectivity. Experiments at solvent concentrations between 17 mol. % and 83 mol. % bridge the gap between diluted electrolytes described by the classical Gouy-Chapman theory and pure ionic liquids. Analysis of our experimental data revealed interfacial profiles comprised of alternating anion and cation enriched regions decaying gradually into the bulk liquid. With increasing solvent concentration, we observed a decrease in correlation length of the interfacial layering structure. At high ion concentrations, solvent molecules were found to accumulate laterally within the layers. By separating like-charged ions, they reduce their Coulomb repulsion. The results are compared with the bulk structure of IL/solvent blends probed by x-ray scattering and predictions from fundamental fluid theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Mezger
- Institute of Physics, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Roland Roth
- Institute for Theoretical Physics, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Heiko Schröder
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter Reichert
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Diego Pontoni
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Harald Reichert
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 38043 Grenoble, France
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Garman EF, Weik M. Radiation damage to macromolecules: kill or cure? JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2015; 22:195-200. [PMID: 25723921 DOI: 10.1107/s160057751500380x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Radiation damage induced by X-ray beams during macromolecular diffraction experiments remains an issue of concern in structural biology. While advances in our understanding of this phenomenon, driven in part by a series of workshops in this area, undoubtedly have been and are still being made, there are still questions to be answered. Eight papers in this volume give a flavour of ongoing investigations, addressing various issues. These range over: a proposed new metric derived from atomic B-factors for identifying potentially damaged amino acid residues, a study of the relative damage susceptibility of protein and DNA in a DNA/protein complex, a report of an indication of specific radiation damage to a protein determined from data collected using an X-ray free-electron laser (FEL), an account of the challenges in FEL raw diffraction data analysis, an exploration of the possibilities of using radiation damage induced phasing to solve structures using FELs, simulations of radiation damage as a function of FEL temporal pulse profiles, results on the influence of radiation damage during scanning X-ray diffraction measurements and, lastly, consideration of strategies for minimizing radiation damage during SAXS experiments. In this short introduction, these contributions are briefly placed in the context of other current work on radiation damage in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elspeth F Garman
- Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Martin Weik
- Université Grenoble Alpes, IBS, F-38044 Grenoble, France
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40
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Jeffries CM, Graewert MA, Svergun DI, Blanchet CE. Limiting radiation damage for high-brilliance biological solution scattering: practical experience at the EMBL P12 beamline PETRAIII. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2015; 22:273-279. [PMID: 25723929 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577515000375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Radiation damage is the general curse of structural biologists who use synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) to investigate biological macromolecules in solution. The EMBL-P12 biological SAXS beamline located at the PETRAIII storage ring (DESY, Hamburg, Germany) caters to an extensive user community who integrate SAXS into their diverse structural biology programs. The high brilliance of the beamline [5.1 × 10(12) photons s(-1), 10 keV, 500 (H) µm × 250 (V) µm beam size at the sample position], combined with automated sample handling and data acquisition protocols, enable the high-throughput structural characterization of macromolecules in solution. However, considering the often-significant resources users invest to prepare samples, it is crucial that simple and effective protocols are in place to limit the effects of radiation damage once it has been detected. Here various practical approaches are evaluated that users can implement to limit radiation damage at the P12 beamline to maximize the chances of collecting quality data from radiation sensitive samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cy M Jeffries
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory Hamburg Outstation, c/o Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron, Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22603, Germany
| | - Melissa A Graewert
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory Hamburg Outstation, c/o Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron, Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22603, Germany
| | - Dmitri I Svergun
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory Hamburg Outstation, c/o Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron, Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22603, Germany
| | - Clément E Blanchet
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory Hamburg Outstation, c/o Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron, Notkestrasse 85, Hamburg 22603, Germany
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41
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Chaudhuri BN. Emerging applications of small angle solution scattering in structural biology. Protein Sci 2015; 24:267-76. [PMID: 25516491 PMCID: PMC4353354 DOI: 10.1002/pro.2624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 12/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Small angle solution X-ray and neutron scattering recently resurfaced as powerful tools to address an array of biological problems including folding, intrinsic disorder, conformational transitions, macromolecular crowding, and self or hetero-assembling of biomacromolecules. In addition, small angle solution scattering complements crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and other structural methods to aid in the structure determinations of multidomain or multicomponent proteins or nucleoprotein assemblies. Neutron scattering with hydrogen/deuterium contrast variation, or X-ray scattering with sucrose contrast variation to a certain extent, is a convenient tool for characterizing the organizations of two-component systems such as a nucleoprotein or a lipid-protein assembly. Time-resolved small and wide-angle solution scattering to study biological processes in real time, and the use of localized heavy-atom labeling and anomalous solution scattering for applications as FRET-like molecular rulers, are amongst promising newer developments. Despite the challenges in data analysis and interpretation, these X-ray/neutron solution scattering based approaches hold great promise for understanding a wide variety of complex processes prevalent in the biological milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barnali N Chaudhuri
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, South Asian UniversityAkbar Bhawan, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, India
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42
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Hopkins JB, Katz AM, Meisburger SP, Warkentin MA, Thorne RE, Pollack L. A microfabricated fixed path length silicon sample holder improves background subtraction for cryoSAXS. J Appl Crystallogr 2015; 48:227-237. [PMID: 26089749 DOI: 10.1107/s1600576714027782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The application of small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) for high-throughput characterization of biological macromolecules in solution is limited by radiation damage. By cryocooling samples, radiation damage and required sample volumes can be reduced by orders of magnitude. However, the challenges of reproducibly creating the identically sized vitrified samples necessary for conventional background subtraction limit the widespread adoption of this method. Fixed path length silicon sample holders for cryoSAXS have been microfabricated to address these challenges. They have low background scattering and X-ray absorption, require only 640 nl of sample, and allow reproducible sample cooling. Data collected in the sample holders from a nominal illuminated sample volume of 2.5 nl are reproducible down to q ≃ 0.02 Å-1, agree with previous cryoSAXS work and are of sufficient quality for reconstructions that match measured crystal structures. These sample holders thus allow faster, more routine cryoSAXS data collection. Additional development is required to reduce sample fracturing and improve data quality at low q.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse B Hopkins
- Laboratory of Atomic and Solid State Physics, Cornell University , Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Andrea M Katz
- School of Applied and Engineering Physics, Cornell University , Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Steve P Meisburger
- School of Applied and Engineering Physics, Cornell University , Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Matthew A Warkentin
- Laboratory of Atomic and Solid State Physics, Cornell University , Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Robert E Thorne
- Laboratory of Atomic and Solid State Physics, Cornell University , Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Lois Pollack
- School of Applied and Engineering Physics, Cornell University , Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
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43
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Gabel F. Small-Angle Neutron Scattering for Structural Biology of Protein–RNA Complexes. Methods Enzymol 2015; 558:391-415. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2015.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Acerbo AS, Cook MJ, Gillilan RE. Upgrade of MacCHESS facility for X-ray scattering of biological macromolecules in solution. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2015; 22:180-6. [PMID: 25537607 PMCID: PMC4294029 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577514020360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
X-ray scattering of biological macromolecules in solution is an increasingly popular tool for structural biology and benefits greatly from modern high-brightness synchrotron sources. The upgraded MacCHESS BioSAXS station is now located at the 49-pole wiggler beamline G1. The 20-fold improved flux over the previous beamline F2 provides higher sample throughput and autonomous X-ray scattering data collection using a unique SAXS/WAXS dual detectors configuration. This setup achieves a combined q-range from 0.007 to 0.7 Å(-1), enabling better characterization of smaller molecules, while opening opportunities for emerging wide-angle scattering methods. In addition, a facility upgrade of the positron storage ring to continuous top-up mode has improved beam stability and eliminated beam drift over the course of typical BioSAXS experiments. Single exposure times have been reduced to 2 s for 3.560 mg ml(-1) lysozyme with an average quality factor I/σ of 20 in the Guinier region. A novel disposable plastic sample cell design that incorporates lower background X-ray window material provides users with a more pristine sample environment than previously available. Systematic comparisons of common X-ray window materials bonded to the cell have also been extended to the wide-angle regime, offering new insight into best choices for various q-space ranges. In addition, a quantitative assessment of signal-to-noise levels has been performed on the station to allow users to estimate necessary exposure times for obtaining usable signals in the Guinier regime. Users also have access to a new BioSAXS sample preparation laboratory which houses essential wet-chemistry equipment and biophysical instrumentation. User experiments at the upgraded BioSAXS station have been on-going since commissioning of the beamline in Summer 2013. A planned upgrade of the G1 insertion device to an undulator for the Winter 2014 cycle is expected to further improve flux by an order of magnitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvin Samuel Acerbo
- Macromolecular Diffraction Facility of the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (MacCHESS), Cornell University, 161 Synchrotron Drive, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Michael J. Cook
- Macromolecular Diffraction Facility of the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (MacCHESS), Cornell University, 161 Synchrotron Drive, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Richard Edward Gillilan
- Macromolecular Diffraction Facility of the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (MacCHESS), Cornell University, 161 Synchrotron Drive, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Correspondence e-mail:
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Kim HS, Gabel F. Uniqueness of models from small-angle scattering data: the impact of a hydration shell and complementary NMR restraints. ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA. SECTION D, BIOLOGICAL CRYSTALLOGRAPHY 2015; 71:57-66. [PMID: 25615860 PMCID: PMC4304686 DOI: 10.1107/s1399004714013923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Small-angle scattering (SAS) has witnessed a breathtaking renaissance and expansion over the past 15 years regarding the determination of biomacromolecular structures in solution. While important issues such as sample quality, good experimental practice and guidelines for data analysis, interpretation, presentation, publication and deposition are increasingly being recognized, crucial topics such as the uniqueness, precision and accuracy of the structural models obtained by SAS are still only poorly understood and addressed. The present article provides an overview of recent developments in these fields with a focus on the influence of complementary NMR restraints and of a hydration shell on the uniqueness of biomacromolecular models. As a first topic, the impact of incorporating NMR orientational restraints in addition to SAS distance restraints is discussed using a quantitative visual representation that illustrates how the possible conformational space of a two-body system is reduced as a function of the available data. As a second topic, the impact of a hydration shell on modelling parameters of a two-body system is illustrated, in particular on its inter-body distance. Finally, practical recommendations are provided to take both effects into account and promising future perspectives of SAS approaches are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry S. Kim
- Université Grenoble Alpes, IBS, 71 avenue des Martyrs, 38044 Grenoble, France
- CNRS, IBS, 71 avenue des Martyrs, 38044 Grenoble, France
- CEA, IBS, 71 avenue des Martyrs, 38044 Grenoble, France
| | - Frank Gabel
- Université Grenoble Alpes, IBS, 71 avenue des Martyrs, 38044 Grenoble, France
- CNRS, IBS, 71 avenue des Martyrs, 38044 Grenoble, France
- CEA, IBS, 71 avenue des Martyrs, 38044 Grenoble, France
- Institut Laue–Langevin, 38042 Grenoble CEDEX 9, France
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46
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Vestergaard B, Sayers Z. Investigating increasingly complex macromolecular systems with small-angle X-ray scattering. IUCRJ 2014; 1:523-9. [PMID: 25485132 PMCID: PMC4224470 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252514020843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The biological solution small-angle X-ray scattering (BioSAXS) field has undergone tremendous development over recent decades. This means that increasingly complex biological questions can be addressed by the method. An intricate synergy between advances in hardware and software development, data collection and evaluation strategies and implementations that readily allow integration with complementary techniques result in significant results and a rapidly growing user community with ever increasing ambitions. Here, a review of these developments, by including a selection of novel BioSAXS method-ologies and recent results, is given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bente Vestergaard
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
- Correspondence e-mail:
| | - Zehra Sayers
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Sabanci University, Orhanli, Istanbul Tuzla 34956, Turkey
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47
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Strulson CA, Yennawar NH, Rambo RP, Bevilacqua PC. Molecular crowding favors reactivity of a human ribozyme under physiological ionic conditions. Biochemistry 2013; 52:8187-97. [PMID: 24187989 PMCID: PMC3882164 DOI: 10.1021/bi400816s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In an effort to relate RNA folding to function under cellular-like conditions, we monitored the self-cleavage reaction of the human hepatitis delta virus-like CPEB3 ribozyme in the background of physiological ionic concentrations and various crowding and cosolute agents. We found that at physiological free Mg(2+) concentrations (∼0.1-0.5 mM), both crowders and cosolutes stimulate the rate of self-cleavage, up to ∼6-fold, but that in 10 mM Mg(2+) (conditions widely used for in vitro ribozyme studies) these same additives have virtually no effect on the self-cleavage rate. We further observe a dependence of the self-cleavage rate on crowder size, wherein the level of rate stimulation is diminished for crowders larger than the size of the unfolded RNA. Monitoring effects of crowding and cosolute agents on rates in biological amounts of urea revealed additive-promoted increases at both low and high Mg(2+) concentrations, with a maximal stimulation of more than 10-fold and a rescue of the rate to its urea-free values. Small-angle X-ray scattering experiments reveal a structural basis for this stimulation in that higher-molecular weight crowding agents favor a more compact form of the ribozyme in 0.5 mM Mg(2+) that is essentially equivalent to the form under standard ribozyme conditions of 10 mM Mg(2+) without a crowder. This finding suggests that at least a portion of the rate enhancement arises from favoring the native RNA tertiary structure. We conclude that cellular-like crowding supports ribozyme reactivity by favoring a compact form of the ribozyme, but only under physiological ionic and cosolute conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A. Strulson
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802
- Center for RNA Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802
| | - Neela H. Yennawar
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802
| | - Robert P. Rambo
- Physical Biosciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, 94720
| | - Philip C. Bevilacqua
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802
- Center for RNA Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802
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48
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Graewert MA, Svergun DI. Impact and progress in small and wide angle X-ray scattering (SAXS and WAXS). Curr Opin Struct Biol 2013; 23:748-54. [PMID: 23835228 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2013.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The advances made in small and wide angle X-ray scattering over the past decades have had a large impact on structural biology. Many new insights into challenging biological probes including large and transient complexes, flexible macromolecules as well as other exciting objects of various sizes were gained with this low resolution technique. Here, we review the recent developments in the experimental setups and in software for data collection and analysis, specifically for hybrid approaches. These progresses have allowed scientists to address a number of intriguing questions which could not be answered with other structural methods alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A Graewert
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Hamburg Unit, EMBL c/o DESY, Notkestraße 85, Hamburg 22603, Germany
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