Residual dipolar couplings as a tool in determining the structure of organic molecules

In the past decade, residual dipolar couplings (RDCs) have revolutionized biomolecular nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Recent developments indicate that this technique can also be applied successfully to organic molecules to determine conformation and configuration, and to distinguish enantiomers. We briefly introduce the basic principle of the method, available alignment media, and pulse sequences for measuring RDCs. We also give an overview of potential applications.