Recent Developments at SSRL BL4-2, a Beamline for Biological Small and Wide Angle X-ray Scattering

TL;DR

This paper describes recent upgrades and capabilities of a beamline at SSRL for advanced X-ray scattering experiments in structural biology.

Contribution

The paper introduces new high-throughput and automated systems for SEC-SAXS and time-resolved SAXS experiments at BL4-2.

Findings

A high-throughput solution sample delivery system enables remote and automated data collection.

Time-resolved SAXS on the millisecond scale is now possible using an optimized stopped-flow system.

A robotic cassette system allows prolonged high-throughput experiments with up to 96 samples per cassette.

Abstract

The small-angle x-ray scattering beam line BL4-2 at the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) provides state-of-the-art experimental facilities for structural biology and biophysics research. The SAXS camera setup features a variable sample to detector distance (0.3 – 3.5m) and a Pilatus3 X 1M detector. Optionally an Eiger2 X 1M detector can be added for simultaneous small- and wide-angle scattering. A wide variety of specialized sample handling devices for variety of different SAXS experiments are available for use at the beam line. This includes a fully automated, remotely accessible, high-throughput solution sample delivery system, which performs all steps necessary for high quality data collection and is connected to a software pipeline for data reduction and initial analysis in real time. A size-exclusion chromatography setup can be directly coupled to the instrument to provide the highest sample quality SEC-SAXS data collection. This can also be further supplemented with inline MALS/DLS and RI detectors to increase the biophysical characterization of the sample. The customized data acquisition system provides fully automated SEC-SAXS data collection with real-time processing and display. Time-resolved solution SAXS on the millisecond time scale is also available at the beamline using and highly optimized stopped-flow system with 30ul minimal injection volume. For highly viscous and solid samples a sample holder system is available that holds up to 96 samples per cassette. A robotic system is available for changing the cassettes automatically or remotely providing prolonged high-throughput experimental capabilities. Recent technological developments and scientific results from the beamline will be presented.