Small-angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) Technology

Small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS), an analysis technology for studying the structure and interaction of biological macromolecules in the solution as well as nanomaterial structure and size, has been widely used in protein and peptide biological structure research, including determining protein crystallization conditions, monitoring in vitro protein behavior, identifying drug delivery systems, and optimizing formulations, etc. With decades of rich experience in developing and performing SAXS analytical methods, CD Formulation uses SAXS technology to provide reliable analytical support for the development and characterization of your protein/peptide drugs, from early development to late product release testing.

What is Small-angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) Technology?

SAXS is an analytical technique based on measuring the intensity of X-rays scattered by a sample as a function of the scattering angle. This technique is used to study the structure and morphology of nanoscale materials, such as metals, alloys, polymers, protein macromolecules in solution, porous materials, nanoparticles, etc. SAXS measurements are performed at very small angles, typically in the range of 0.1 to 5 degrees. By measuring the intensity and angular distribution of the scattered X-rays, the scattering curves of the sample can be obtained. These curves can be used to determine information such as the spacing, size, shape, and organization of atoms or molecules in the sample.

Small-angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) Principle

The basic principle of SAXS is similar to light scattering. In SAXS, when collimated X-rays are incident on a sample, the X-rays are scattered by atoms or molecules in the sample. Since the order of magnitude of the X-ray wavelength is close to the distance between atoms or molecules, the scattered X-rays are detected at a small angle relative to the incident beam, i.e., small-angle scattering. The obtained scattering pattern is characterized by peaks and valleys, providing information about the size, shape, and arrangement of the scattered particles or molecules. According to Bragg's law, as the scattering angle decreases, the detected structural features become larger and larger. In the experimental setup for SAXS measurement, the X-ray optical system that produces a very narrow but extremely intense incident X-ray beam is an important element for SAXS testing.

Fig. 1 Basic schematic SAXS setup. (Londoño OM, et al., 2018)

Our Services Related to Small-angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS)

Thanks to decades of experience in supporting protein/peptide biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing using SAXS technology, our team of highly qualified experts offers a range of SAXS-related services to accelerate the implementation and success of your projects.

Our experienced team of experts has completed hundreds of protein and peptide SAXS analysis projects, allowing support for all stages of your protein/peptide drug development and manufacturing - from early studies to downstream process monitoring and GMP batch release testing.

We provide experienced SAXS experiments to customers worldwide with the goal of determining the 3D structure of proteins (or protein complexes) in solution in their native state (i.e. protein envelopes) with nanometer resolution. Our SAXS instruments are equipped with advanced autosamplers, detectors, and HPLC systems to provide you with high-quality results.

Utilizing cutting-edge SAXS technology, we support the following protein/peptide characterization plans, including but not limited to:

• Predict the structure of proteins of interest.
• Study interactions between proteins (higher order structure), including stability and aggregation pathways.
• Determine the size, molecular weight, and degree of folding of protein complexes.
• Characterize the self-assembly of peptides.
• Explore the structure of protein and peptide drug formulations, nanomedicines, and their interactions with biological systems.
• Study the effects of buffer conditions and temperature on protein/peptide drug formulations.
• Characterize the structure of nano-delivery carriers to provide structural positioning information of loaded drugs that is fully correlated with the pharmacological activity of proteins and peptides.
• Analyze the structure of liquid crystals in lipid drug delivery systems.
• Determine the size and shape of surfactants in drug delivery system formulations.

Advantages of Our Small-angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS)

• A non-destructive and non-invasive technique that allows for multiple measurements and subsequent analysis.
• Provides information on the size, shape, and arrangement of nanostructured materials without the need for crystalline samples.
• Allows the study of protein structural changes under a wide range of conditions (e.g., temperature, pressure).
• Wide applicability.

Note:

• The sample to be analyzed should be homogeneous, non-aggregated, and the concentration should be within a specific range.
• Only provides structural information at the nanoscale, SAXS can't provide atomic resolution like other techniques such as X-ray crystallography.

Custom Small-angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) Services

Why Choose Our Small-angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) Technology?

• Our team consists of experts with extensive experience in SAXS, ensuring high-quality analysis and interpretation of results.
• Our analytical lab is equipped with top-of-the-line SAXS instruments that provide high-resolution data, enabling detailed structural characterization of proteins and complex biological systems.
• We provide not only raw data, but also thorough analysis and interpretation to help clients understand the meaning of their results.
• We work closely with clients to understand their specific research questions and tailor our services accordingly to improve the effectiveness of SAXS analysis.
• Our team provides consultation throughout the project, from initial consultation to final data interpretation, ensuring clear and effective communication.
• Our streamlined process ensures that you receive results in a timely manner, supporting your protein/peptide development and manufacturing project deadlines and research goals.
• We provide flexible experimental design and customized solutions.

Publication

CD Formulation aims to provide a powerful analytical tool for protein and peptide HOS (secondary, tertiary) characterization. We are confident in providing unparalleled structural determination services using SAXS to meet every client's needs. Please feel free to contact us if you are interested in our services. Learn how our SAXS technology can support the smooth implementation of your protein/peptide biopharmaceutical program.

How It Works

STEP 1

Submit a service request describing your specific research or development need.

STEP 2

We'll email you to provide your quote and confirm order details if applicable.

STEP 3

Execute the project with real-time communication, and deliver the final report promptly.