Biomolecular magic-angle spinning solid-state NMR: recent methods and applications

The link of structure and dynamics of biomolecules and their complexes to their function and to many cellular processes has driven the quest for their detailed characterization by a variety of biophysical techniques. Magic-angle spinning solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy provides detailed information on the structural properties of such systems and in particular contributes invaluable information on non-soluble, large molecular-weight and non-crystalline biomolecules. This review summarizes the recent progress that has been made in the characterization of macromolecular assemblies, viruses, membrane proteins, amyloid fibrils, protein aggregates and more by magic-angle spinning solid-state NMR.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (371 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Recent progress in biomolecular magic angle spinning solid state NMR is reviewed. ► MAS NMR is applied to study non-crystalline, non-soluble and high molecular-weight systems. ► New methods rely on sparse isotope enrichment, proton detection, fast spinning and signal enhancements. ► New structure calculations are based on 1H–1H restraints, paramagnetic effects and tensor analysis. ► Applications to protein aggregates, assemblies, fibrils, membrane proteins and enzymes are described.