Summary
Nuclear magnetic resonance reveals structures and dynamics of molecules in solution.
In depth
Nuclei such as 1H, 13C and 15N resonate in magnetic fields; chemical shifts and couplings reveal structure. Solution NMR determines small protein structures (up to about 30 kDa) and dynamics; MRI is its medical cousin.
Samples are isotopically labelled for proteins. Spectra give distances between atoms. Dynamics are probed by relaxation.
Example: NMR is used to study intrinsically disordered proteins.
Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy exploits the fact that certain nuclei (1H, 13C, 15N) behave like tiny magnets. In a strong magnetic field, they absorb radio-frequency energy at frequencies that depend on their chemical environment, giving a spectrum from which structure can be deduced.
Multidimensional experiments determine 3D structures of proteins up to about 50 kDa in solution, close to their natural state, and measure motion and binding on many timescales. It also quantifies metabolites in extracts or living tissue without destroying samples. The same physics underlies MRI in medicine.
Example: mapping which residues of a protein change when a drug binds.
Frequently asked questions
What is NMR in Biology?
Nuclear magnetic resonance reveals structures and dynamics of molecules in solution.
Which area of biology covers NMR in Biology, and how advanced is it?
NMR in Biology is one of the 51 topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include FRET, Mass Spectrometry, Immunofluorescence.
Why does NMR in Biology matter?
It studies flexible, dynamic molecules that crystals cannot.
Can you give an example of NMR in Biology?
Metabolomics uses NMR for urine samples.
What should I learn before NMR in Biology?
Work through the Beginner topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics first, such as Scientific Method, Hypothesis, Variables, then return to NMR in Biology. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to NMR in Biology?
The closest topics to NMR in Biology are FRET, Mass Spectrometry, Immunofluorescence, Fluorescent Proteins. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand NMR in Biology?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for NMR in Biology. To practise the whole of Lab Methods & Biostatistics, use the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz.
How is NMR in Biology different from FRET?
NMR in Biology: Nuclear magnetic resonance reveals structures and dynamics of molecules in solution. FRET: Energy transfer between two fluorophores reports on molecular distances and interactions. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study NMR in Biology step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with FRET and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.