Exploring Molecular Binding: A Fluorescence Anisotropy Lab for Undergraduates

• DOI: 10.1021/acs.jchemed.4c01023
• Publication Date: 2025-01-07T10:44:53Z
• Authors: Maxine Forder; Maira Rivera; Yuhao Chen; Jasmine Phénix; Tara Shomali; Lisa Marie Munter; Maureen McKeague
• Keywords: Aptamer; Biophysical chemistry

Measuring interactions between macromolecules is essential for elucidating their dynamics in solution and critical the design study of potential therapeutics. Fluorescence anisotropy has been a powerful widely used tool studying binding interactions. When fluorescent partner excited with polarized light while bound to its cognate ligand, emitted partially polarized. This process dependent on concentration molecules, permitting determination affinity. Here, we outline highly modular undergraduate-level laboratory which students use fluorescence measure synthetic nucleic acid aptamer protein target. Students learn theory functional acids principles exploring relevance sequence/structure activity relationships via mutations aptamers. With this approach, can deepen knowledge about macromolecular are able develop valuable analytical biophysical skills. experiment adaptable suit range funding instructor availability, making it accessible tailorable most settings.