3D structure of the natural tetrameric form of human butyrylcholinesterase as revealed by cryoEM, SAXS and MD.

Human plasma butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) is an endogenous bioscavenger that hydrolyzes numerous medicamentous and poisonous esters and scavenges potent organophosphorus nerve agents. BChE is thus a marker for the diagnosis of OP poisoning. It is also considered a therapeutic target against Alzheimer's disease.

X-ray fluorescence methods for investigations of lipid/protein membrane models.

The protective effect of the bisphosphonate drug xydiphone (K,Na-ethidronate) on membrane-bound enzyme damaged by lead ions has been studied. A protein/lipid film of Ca-ATPase/phosphatedylethanolamine deposited on a silicon substrate was used as a model system. The position of lead ions within the molecular film before and after the xydiphone treatment was determined using the total-reflection X-ray fluorescence method.