Dynamic Light Scattering
Method Introduction
Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is a non-invasive, quick, and robust technique for determining the hydrodynamic size of molecules or particles. Based on intensity fluctuations of laser light scattered by the molecules/particles moving in Brownian motion, the diffusion coefficient is determined and converted to particle size via the Stokes-Einstein equation.
The particle size range of DLS depends on the properties of the analyzed species, such as refractive index or density, as well as the surrounding formulation, mainly the viscosity. A size range from about 1 nm to several µm can be covered for protein monomers and aggregates. Particle concentrations cannot be obtained by DLS. For aggregated protein samples, DLS results can show that the aggregate distribution in the sample is polydisperse. Still, obtaining detailed quantitative information on monomer and aggregate content is not feasible.
Applications
DLS can determine the hydrodynamic size of protein monomers, small aggregates in the nanometer range and partially also particles in the high nanometer/low micrometer range. The technique can also be employed to analyze colloidal systems, such as liposomes, nanoparticles, polymers and virus-like particles.
Quality and Biosafety Level
We provide all our analytical services with the highest quality standards. Experienced scientists carry out each project, and a scientific reviewer comprehensively checks every report or data presentation.
We offer this technology with the following quality and biosafety levels:
R&D level
We offer this method under R&D. Our GRP system assures the highest-quality research standards.
Up to biosafety level 2
This method can be applied to nucleic acids, viruses, cells, viral vectors, including lentiviruses and more.
Analytical Method Development, Qualification and Validation
For common sample types, we can often apply standardized methods with little setup effort. However, when needed, our experienced analytical experts create or optimize custom methods tailored to your active pharmaceutical ingredient, product type and development phase.
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