Methods and Techniques
Our Biophysical Tools
Our research group investigates mechanics of viral replication, virus-host interactions, virus assembly and disassembly within the host. Specifically, we investigate energetics, structure and mobility of the intra-capsid genome as well as mechanical properties of viral capsids, influenced by changes in physiological environment that are important for viral replication. Main tools in our laboratory are: Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), microcalorimetry, high resolution cryo electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy (single-molecule FM and Super-Resolution FM), small angle x-ray and neutron scattering (SANS and SAXS).
Atomic Force Microscopy of viral genomes and capsids.
Cryo - Electron Microscopy of virus structure.
Microcalorimetry/energetics of viral genome release.
Super Resolution and Fluorescence Microscopy/ mechanism of viral infection and dynamics of viral populations.
Small-angle X-ray and Neutron Scattering/structure of viral genomes.