Biological Interactions, Label Free Detection

Biological processes depend on interactions between molecules, examples being protein-protein or protein-sugar, -DNA or ions. The ability to measure interactions in a fast, precise manner using a small amount of material, is essential for many processes. This grant will support the investment in an OctetK2 instrument, for label-free analysis without intrinsic or external labels, to monitor binding characteristics. This is a huge advantage as labelling can affect the biophysical properties of a molecule and thereby the interaction with other molecules. The instrument will be used by several research groups at PLEN. My research focuses on signal perception by receptors at the cell surface. Such signals are essential for plants in order to react and adapt to changes in the surroundings.