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Updated: Dec 27, 2025

Characterization of pH-Dependent Reversible Self-Assembly of Amyloid Beta 1-40-Coated Gold Colloids
Published on: March 21, 2025
Solution NMR insights into dynamic supramolecular assemblies of disordered amyloidogenic proteins
Francesca Munari1, Mariapina D'Onofrio1, Michael Assfalg1
1Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134, Verona, Italy.
Abstract:
The extraordinary flexibility and structural heterogeneity of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDP) make them functionally versatile molecules. We have now begun to better understand their fundamental role in biology, however many aspects of their behaviour remain difficult to grasp experimentally. This is especially true for the intermolecular interactions which lead to the formation of transient or highly dynamic supramolecular self-assemblies, such as oligomers, aggregation intermediates and biomolecular condensates. Both the emerging functions and pathogenicity of these structures have stimulated great efforts to develop methodologies capable of providing useful insights. Significant progress in solution NMR spectroscopy has made this technique one of the most powerful to describe structural and dynamic features of IDPs within such assemblies at atomic resolution. Here, we review the most recent works that have illuminated key aspects of IDP assemblies and contributed significant advancements towards our understanding of the complex conformational landscape of prototypical disease-associated proteins. We also include a primer on some of the fundamental and innovative NMR methods being used in the discussed studies.
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