Technique provides application flexibility and enables higher throughput thermodynamic analysis of binding interactions than previously possible
MicroCal announces the development of the novel single injection method for its isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) systems: the VP-ITC and AutoITC.
This innovative technique provides application flexibility and enables higher throughput thermodynamic analysis of binding interactions than previously possible.
Modifications to the injection system and stirring base of the VP-ITC allow for a broader range of cell stirring speeds and more precise injection rates that make single injection method (Sim) possible.
Sim technology provides a continuous, slow injection of ligand, producing differential power data which is converted into a binding isotherm.
This is then fit to a binding model using a specific calorimetric analysis algorithm.
Sim has been demonstrated to measure binding affinities between 10^3M-1 to 10^9M-1 and the data generated is comparable to that from a multiple injection ITC run producing precise measurements of changes in enthalpy and entropy, binding affinity (KB) and the stoichiometry of binding (n).
Depending on experimental conditions, a typical Sim experiment takes 20-50 minutes from the start of injection, whereas the same experiment using multi-injection methods requires 10-30 injections taking 45-120 minutes.
With Sim therefore, throughput is greatly increased.
MicroCal's ITC systems provide an accurate thermodynamic profile characterising the binding of any two biomolecules, such as enzyme-inhibitor; protein-drug; protein-protein; antibody-antigen and protein-DNA.
This information rich data is obtained through the direct measurement.
In addition, the VP-ITC and AutoITC instrumentation and data analysis software offers more efficient drug discovery and development as well as rational or structure based drug design, says the company.
Furthermore, application of the Sim technology greatly enhances throughput and therefore enables faster, more in-depth characterisation of molecular binding mechanisms.
MicroCal develops and manufactures microcalorimeters, primarily for use in the life sciences.
