Enhanced Dynamics of Hydrated tRNA on Nanodiamond Surfaces: A Combined Neutron Scattering and MD Simulation Study.

Nontoxic, biocompatible nanodiamonds (ND) have recently been implemented in rational, systematic design of optimal therapeutic use in nanomedicines. However, hydrophilicity of the ND surface strongly influences structure and dynamics of biomolecules that restrict in situ applications of ND. Therefore, fundamental understanding of the impact of hydrophilic ND surface on biomolecules at the molecular level is essential.

Temperature-dependent dynamics of dry and hydrated β-casein studied by quasielastic neutron scattering.

β-Casein is a component of casein micelle with amphillic nature and is recognized as a "natively disordered" protein that lacks secondary structures. In this study, the temperature and hydration effects on the dynamics of β-casein are explored by quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS). An upturn in the mean square displacement (MSD) of hydrated β-casein indicates an increase of protein flexibility at a temperature of ~225 K.