BIOPHYSICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF MACROMOLECULES USING THE OPEN-ACCESS SPECTROSCOPY AND CALORIMETRY LABORATORY AT LNBIO/CNPEM

The Spectroscopy and Calorimetry Laboratory (LEC) has been fundamental to the biophysical investigation of proteins at Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory (LNBio), integrating the structural and functional characterization platforms for macromolecules. The facility is equipped with an extensive array of equipment, such as spectrophotometer, spectrofluorometer, circular dichroism spectrophotometer (CD), microscale thermophoresis (MST), nano-differential scanning fluorimetry (nano-DSF), biolayer interferometry (BLI), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and size-exclusion chromatography with multi angle light scattering (SEC-MALS). These tools enable a broad spectrum of analyses, including quality control of biomolecules, structural and functional characterization of proteins, thermodynamic studies of macromolecular interactions, screening of working conditions, thermal and chemical stability experiments, molecular dynamics studies and evaluation of reaction kinetics. Additionally, it is possible to measure molecular weight, size, zeta potential, shape and conformation of biological macromolecules, as well as certain polymers and nanoparticles. The LEC has national coverage, operates in a continuous mode and provides its services to academic researchers free of charge. Research project proposals should be submitted via the platform sauonline.cnpem.br. The process includes technical and safety feasibility analysis, scheduling and then training and support in conducting experiments. The facility's activities go beyond offering research infrastructure and services. It also emphasizes the development of new methodologies, provides training in techniques and equipment and assists with data acquisition and processing.

LNBio is part of the Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), a private, non-profit, research and development institution under supervision of the Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI).