X-ray Scattering Analysis
X-ray Scattering Analysis - Related Videos
10:39
Measurement of X-ray Beam Coherence along Multiple Directions Using 2-D Checkerboard Phase Grating
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Cited by 10 •
2016
The measurement protocol and data analysis procedure are given for obtaining transverse coherence of a synchrotron radiation X-ray source along four directions simultaneously using a single 2-D checkerboard phase grating. This simple technique can be applied for complete transverse coherence characterization of X-ray sources and X-ray optics.
08:00
Growing Crystals for X-ray Diffraction Analysis
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2023
Source: Laboratory of Dr. Jimmy Franco - Merrimack College X-ray crystallography is a method commonly used to determine the spatial arrangement of atoms in a crystalline solid, which allows for the determination of the three-dimensional shape of a molecule or complex. Determining the three-dimensional structure of a compound is of particular importance, since a compound's structure and function are intimately related. Information about a compound's structure is often used to explain its...
06:56
Tree Core Analysis with X-ray Computed Tomography
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Cited by 10 •
2023
Here we show how to process tree cores with an X-ray computed tomography toolchain. Except for chemical extraction for some purposes, no further physical lab treatment is needed. The toolchain can be used for biomass estimations, for obtaining MXD/tree-ring width data as well as for obtaining quantitative wood anatomy data.
07:54
Preparing Adherent Cells for X-ray Fluorescence Imaging by Chemical Fixation
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Cited by 14 •
2015
Here, we present a protocol on how to determine the quantity and distribution of metals in a sample using synchrotron X-ray fluorescence. We focus on adherent cells, and describe the chemical fixation method to prepare this sample. We then describe how to mount and image the sample using synchrotron X-rays.
12:53
Small and Wide Angle X-Ray Scattering Studies of Biological Macromolecules in Solution
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Cited by 11 •
2013
The demonstration of the small and wide angle X-ray scattering (SWAXS) procedure has become instrumental in the study of biological macromolecules. Through the use of the instrumentation and procedures of specific angle methods and preparation, the experimental data from the SWAXS displays the atomic and nano-scale characterization of macromolecules.
FAQs
Electron density controls both where scattered radiation appears and how strong it is. Variations in electron density produce angle-dependent intensity patterns, and those patterns encode distances, periodicity, and overall molecular arrangement. Analysis therefore moves from a measured distribution of intensities to structural features, allowing researchers to assess organization without directly imaging each molecule.
Small-angle and wide-angle measurements extend structural analysis across biological sample types rather than restricting it to one material. The method can be applied to proteins, nucleic acids, membranes, and complexes, whether they are studied in solution or as ordered materials. This flexibility helps investigators select a scattering approach compatible with the organization present in the sample.
Crystallization is not required for the applications described here. Because profiles can be collected from samples in solution as well as ordered materials, investigators can examine molecular shape, assembly, and organization in states that are not represented by a crystal. That capability is especially relevant when the biological question concerns changes under different experimental conditions.
A basic workflow begins by exposing the biological sample to an X-ray beam and recording the radiation scattered at different angles and intensities. Researchers then analyze the resulting scattering pattern or profile to extract distances, periodicity, molecular shape, and arrangement. Comparing profiles obtained under different conditions can reveal conformational changes, assembly behavior, or interactions.
Suitable applications span several levels of biological organization. X-ray scattering analysis can be used for individual proteins and nucleic acids, as well as larger membranes and molecular complexes. It can investigate samples in solution or ordered materials, so the same general strategy supports questions about molecular shape, organization, and assembly across diverse biological systems.
In biology, the technique is valuable when structure must be connected to behavior under changing conditions. Scattering profiles can help relate a molecular system’s shape and assembly state to conformational changes or interactions. Rather than providing only a static structural description, the analysis supports comparisons across conditions, which can clarify how biological organization changes.