Neutrons in the Life sciences

The sensitivity of neutrons to hydrogen is a key factor for their use in the life sciences. At Uppsala University, we apply different neutron-based techniques for the study of structure and dynamics at biological interfaces such as lipid membranes or in emulsions. The isotope specific sensitivity can be utilised to use heavy water as a tracer. Below you find some examples of neutrons helping to answer specific research questions.

Neutron scattering techniques are a useful tool to study the self-assembly of biological building blocks such as lipids. In one example study, neutron reflectometry (NR) first resolved the structure of a nanoparticle monolayer with sub-nanometre resolution. NR and grazing incidence small-angle neutron scattering (GISANS) were then used to observe structure and formation of lipid bilayers on the nanoparticle array.

Research on different proteins also benefits from the unique properties of neutrons. Pea protein for example is a promising candidate for a plant-based protein to stabilise emulsions. Heavy water (D₂O) was used as a tracer in an oil-in-water emulsion so that the isotope specific sensitivity of neutrons could be used to quantify the hydration of the protein. Small angle neutron scattering (SANS) also revealed how protein aggregated depending on the emulsion’s pH. Another protein we study at Uppsala University is the seed protein from Moringa trees. Current research investigates how the seeds can help remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from the environment. NR in combination with different water contrasts (H₂O vs. D₂O) were used to determine the composition and structure of the mixed protein-PFAS layer.

Neutrons also support research on drug delivery and pharmacological toxicity. As an example, neutron reflectometry was used to quantify the amount of an amphiphilic drug incorporated into a bilayer membrane providing important information on the membrane dissolution.

Selected publications