Beckman-Coulter Optima XL-I

Analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC)

This method is used to determine the molecular weight as well as the hydrodynamic and thermodynamic properties of macromolecules in solution, over a wide range of conditions (such as concentration, temperature, ionic strength and pH).

Briefly, the concentration distribution of macromolecules is optically monitored in real time, while subjected to a gravitational field. 

Sedimentation velocity and sedimentation equilibrium experiments can be done with the instrument.

The XL-I's measurements are based on the first principles of thermodynamics and hydrodynamics, therefore, no standards or calibrations are required.

Used to determine

• Sedimentation coefficient

• Diffusion coefficient

• Concentration

• Homogeneity

• Buoyant density

• Association and disassociation constants

• Ligand binding

• Stoichiometry

Type of samples

• Nucleic acid

• Proteins

• Virus particles

• Carbohydrates

• Organelles

Advantages

• Label free

• Accurate

• Small sample size

• Wide range of molecule sizes

• Non-destructive to the sample