SCATPLOT: a computer program for determination of binding parameters of non-linear non-cooperative ligand-substrate...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Computational Biology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Computer-assisted analysis of non-linear binding phenomena using Scatchard equations is crucial.
• Existing software like LIGAND, SCTFIT, and ALLFIT effectively determine binding parameters for Scatchard plots.
• However, no readily available software addresses the McGhee and von Hippel formalism for similar analyses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop user-friendly software for estimating binding parameters in non-linear Scatchard plots.
• To specifically address the McGhee and von Hippel formalism, which is not covered by existing tools.
• To provide a tool for analyzing non-cooperative ligand-substrate interactions.

Main Methods:

• Development of SCATPLOT software using Turbo BASIC.
• Implementation of the McGhee and von Hippel equation for nonlinear Scatchard plot analysis.
• Incorporation of a novel parameter to guide least squares analysis and binding parameter determination.

Main Results:

• SCATPLOT provides a user-friendly interface for numerical estimation of binding parameters.
• The software accurately fits experimental data to the McGhee and von Hippel equation.
• A new parameter facilitates the least square analysis process.

Conclusions:

• SCATPLOT is a valuable, accessible tool for analyzing non-linear Scatchard plots based on the McGhee and von Hippel formalism.
• It fills a gap in available software for studying non-cooperative ligand-substrate interactions.
• The software enhances the computer-assisted analysis of complex binding phenomena.