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Spin labeling EPR

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Abstract

Site-directed spin labeling in combination with electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy has emerged as an efficient tool to elucidate the structure and conformational dynamics of biomolecules under native-like conditions. This article summarizes the basics as well as recent progress of site-directed spin labeling. Continuous wave EPR spectra analyses and pulse EPR techniques are reviewed with special emphasis on applications to the sensory rhodopsin–transducer complex mediating the photophobic response of the halophilic archaeum Natronomonas pharaonis and the photosynthetic reaction center from Rhodobacter sphaeroides R26.

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Abbreviations

AS:

Amphipathic sequence

CrOx:

Chromium oxalate

cw:

Continuous wave

DEER:

Double electron–electron resonance

EPR:

Electron paramagnetic resonance

MTSSL:

(1-Oxyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrroline-3-methyl)methanethiosulfonate spin label

NpSRII:

Natronomonas pharaonis sensory rhodopsin II

NpHtrII:

Natronomonas pharaonis halobacterial transducer II

PELDOR:

Pulse electron–electron double resonance

PML:

Purple membrane lipids

RC:

Reaction center

SDSL:

Site-directed spin labeling

TM:

Transmembrane helix

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  1. Physics Department, University of Osnabrück, Barbarastr. 7, 49076, Osnabrück, Germany

    Johann P. Klare & Heinz-Jürgen Steinhoff

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  1. Johann P. Klare
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  2. Heinz-Jürgen Steinhoff
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Correspondence to Heinz-Jürgen Steinhoff.

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Klare, J.P., Steinhoff, HJ. Spin labeling EPR. Photosynth Res 102, 377–390 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11120-009-9490-7

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