Modulating the Physical Properties of Micelles for Membrane Protein Investigations

摘要: Micelle-forming detergents are used to solubilize integral membrane proteins for biochemical and physical characterizations. However, the unique properties of each protein require exhaustive, currently empirical, screening optimize detergent conditions which yield a stable protein-detergent complex (PDC). Detergent mixtures provide means expanding available micellar environments, while also allowing select micelles be engineered. The must well understood correlate these with stability fold function. Using small-angle X-ray scattering, we determined sizes shapes formed by comprehensive set commercially commonly proteins, systematically assessed binary detergents. Micelle size shape were directly from Guinier analysis low angle data, position second maxima at intermediate angles, core-shell model fit micelle scattering profiles. Many properties, such as hydrophobic thickness, have linear dependence on mole fraction. In addition modulating micelle, other surface charge fluidity can results this investigation now rationally design investigations.