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Size-up protein molecules without sacrificing samples

| By Chemical Engineering

The new Zetasizer µV (photo) is an advanced light-scattering system for the characterization of proteins, other biomolecules and nanoparticles. The system is designed and optimized for maximum sensitivity and minimum sample volumes; just 2 µL of sample are required, allowing measurement of as little as 40 picograms of bovine serum albumin, for example. Sample is recoverable, ensuring no loss of valuable material, says the firm. Both dynamic- and static-light scattering are used for measuring diffusion speeds, particle size and particle-size distributions, absolute molecular weight and second viral coefficient — a parameter used to assess protein solubility and suitable conditions for crystallization. — Malvern Instruments Ltd., Malvern, U.K.

www.malvern.com