Second-Harmonic Generation (SHG) for Conformational Measurements: Assay Development, Optimization, and Screening

Abstract

Second-harmonic generation (SHG) has recently emerged as a biophysical tool for conformational sensing of a target biomolecule upon binding to ligands such as small molecules, fragments, proteins, peptides, and oligonucleotides. To date, SHG has been used to measure conformational changes of targets such as soluble proteins, protein complexes, intrinsically disordered proteins, peripheral and integral membrane proteins, peptides, and oligonucleotides upon binding of ligands over a wide range of affinities. In this chapter, we will provide a technology overview, detailed protocols for optimizing assays and screening, practical considerations, and an example case study to guide the reader in developing robust and informative measurements using the Biodesy Delta SHG platform.

Keywords: Assay development; Biomolecular interactions; Conformation; Ligand characterization; Mechanism of action; Nuisance compounds; Screening; Second-harmonic generation.