Neutron scattering for biological research: Progress at the bio-SANS Beam line

Structure-function relationships remain a critical theme in understanding many important biological processes regarding energy, disease and other applications. At Oak Ridge National Laboratory, home to two of the most powerful neutron sources for research, the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) and Spallation Neutron Source (SNS), we have developed an open-access user instrument, the Bio-SANS. As an instrument dedicated for biology-related research, it applies techniques of small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) to a broad range of research topics. The unique advantage of neutron scattering contrast, often naturally occurring between different types of biomolecules such as protein, lipids, RNA/DNA, etc., affords researchers the ability to study the structures of individual components in complex biological systems and under biologically relevant conditions. Furthermore, the high penetration power of neutrons and the lack of radiation damage make SANS well-suited for the study of large, multi-component biological complexes both in situ and in vivo.