Neutron diffraction as a probe for the characterization of biological entities

Using neutron diffraction as a probe, investigations at the interface between physics, chemistry and medicine can provide major information to clinicians, and the goal of this short review is to assess different information which can be retrieved. Varied research issues can be approached, such as the interaction of tissues with trace elements, the mechanical deformation of prosthesis, and the effect of diseases affecting bone or kidney stone composition and microstructure, as well as the dissolution process induced by drugs on kidney stones.