Application of Neutron Reflectivity for Studies of Biomolecular Structures and Functions at Interfaces

Structures and functions of cell membranes are of central importance in understanding processes such as cell signaling, chemotaxis, redox transformation, biofilm formation, and mineralization occurring at interfaces. This chapter provides an overview of the application of neutron reflectivity (NR) as a unique tool for probing biomolecular structures and mechanisms as a first step toward understanding protein, protein lipid, and protein mineral interactions at the membrane substrate interfaces. Emphasis is given to the review of existing literature on the assembly of biomimetic membrane systems, such as supported membranes for NR studies, and demonstration of model calculations showing the potential of NR to elucidate molecular fundamentals of microbial cell mineral interactions and structure functional relationships of electron transport pathways. The increased neutron flux afforded by current and upcoming neutron sources holds promise for elucidating detailed processes such as phase separation, formation of microdomains, and membrane interactions with proteins and peptides in biological systems