Short Description
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) has become pivotal for understanding biomolecular structures, particularly in proteins and nucleic acids, offering insights into interactions and functional processes, even within living cells. It integrates structural, dynamic, kinetic, and thermodynamic data, making it indispensable for cutting-edge medical and biological research. Solution NMR plays a vital role in elucidating molecular interactions crucial for cellular functions, aided by recent hardware and software advancements. Its versatility spans from supra-molecular to intrinsically unfolded proteins, facilitating the study of dynamic processes across various timescales. The NMR platform alleviates the workload for researchers and promotes the democratization of bio-NMR studies, thus driving progress in structural biology.
The 500MHz NMR spectrometer, specifically tailored for molecular screening and drug design, is equipped with a cryo-probe and a SampleJET, significantly enhancing its capabilities. It facilitates drug design and structural biology by delivering high-resolution data on molecular interactions between potential drug candidates and their targets, thereby aiding in the rational design of novel therapeutics. Moreover, its sensitivity and versatility facilitate the comprehensive characterization of biomolecular structures, and offer crucial insights into protein dynamics. These insights are essential for comprehending disease mechanisms and devising effective treatments.
Contact Person
Julien Orts
Research Services
The service includes setting up NMR experiments, either as routine procedures or through collaboration for more complex tasks. Additionally, students receive training to operate the NMR machines.
Methods & Expertise for Research Infrastructure
A 500MHz NMR spectrometer provides versatile applications, including the study of protein dynamics, protein allostery, and fragment library screening. Its high sensitivity and resolution enable researchers to investigate local protein dynamics, characterize allosteric regulation mechanisms, and screen molecular fragment libraries for potential drug candidates.
The screening process can be efficiently conducted using the SampleJET robot, enhancing throughput and reproducibility. This instrument serves as a powerful tool in structural biology and drug discovery, providing insights into fundamental biological processes and facilitating the development of novel therapeutics.
2023 ERC-COG
Julien Orts
Wasilewicz, A., et al., Identification of Natural Products Inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 by Targeting Viral Proteases: A Combined in Silico and in Vitro Approach. J Nat Prod, 2023. 86(2): p. 264-275.