BEACON - A multi-user and multi-project facility for biological macromolecules and nanoparticles characterization in solution

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Biological entities are composed of small molecules (e.g., water), macromolecules (proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, polysaccharides), supramolecular assemblies or macromolecular complexes, which assemble into subcellular organelles and cells, which in turn form supracellular systems such as tissues and organs. One of the key features of biological systems is the complex, specific or non-specific, intra- and inter-molecular interactions, which determine the structure and, further, the biological functions associated with the structure. As an example, hemoglobin is a tetrameric protein that binds and transports four oxygen molecules per unit and then releases them to myoglobin. The contacts between biological molecules, or biomolecular interactions, are also responsible for pathogen invasion and various diseases. SARS-CoV-2 virus binds to ACE2, the host target cell receptor, through the receptor binding domain of its spike protein. Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's are associated with the prion-like propagation and aggregation of toxic proteins. The ability to measure key physical parameters (e.g., mass, size, shape, interaction, and conjugation) of biological macromolecules and nanoparticles in solution will answer many FUNDAMENTAL QUESTIONS IN BIOLOGY and help us to understand THE RULES OF LIFE. Not only will the answers and the rules help to advance biotechnology and biological science, they guide our solutions to the grand challenges facing humanity (e.g., new and re-emerging diseases, epidemic, climate change, and sustainability etc). The aim of this proposal is to purchase a state-of-the-art equipment to enable biophysical measurements. The equipment will support a host of research projects underpinning BBSRC priorities, which neatly align with the visions of the four flagship institutes at the University of Sheffield (Healthy Lifespan, Neuroscience, Energy, and Sustainable Food). On top of that, the equipment allows the University COVID-19 response team to measure the quality of and quantify the biological reagents manufactured at the University to support diagnostic testing of coronavirus. The equipment also enhances our response and preparedness for current and future emergency. This equipment will be maintained by a dedicated team in the Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering at the University.