Nanodiscs
Nanodiscs are nanoscale, discoidal lipid bilayer structures stabilized by amphipathic scaffold proteins. Typically 8-16 nm in diameter, they mimic the natural cell membrane environment while maintaining solubility in aqueous solutions. This unique property allows for the isolation, stabilization, and study of membrane proteins in a state that closely resembles their native biological context.
The concept of nanodiscs emerged from research aimed at solving the longstanding challenge of studying membrane proteins in their active conformation. Developed by scientists seeking alternatives to traditional detergent-based systems, nanodiscs were engineered to provide a more physiologically relevant environment for membrane-associated proteins. Over the past two decades, they have evolved into standardized research tools used worldwide.
Each nanodisc consists of three key components: 1) Lipid bilayer: Phospholipids that form a planar bilayer, providing a hydrophobic core, 2) Scaffold proteins: Amphipathic proteins (typically modified apolipoproteins) that encircle the lipid bilayer, providing structural stability, 3) Incorporated membrane proteins: Target proteins embedded within the lipid bilayer (when used for protein studies). The precise composition can be customized to match specific research requirements, including different lipid types and scaffold protein variants.
Figure 1. Examples of membrane protein structure in nanodiscs. [Denisov, I., Sligar, S. Nanodiscs for structural and functional studies of membrane proteins. Nat Struct Mol Biol 23, 481–486 (2016).]
Nanodiscs represent a revolutionary advancement in the field of membrane biology and pharmaceutical research. As a leading provider of nanodisc products, Creative Biogene offers cutting-edge solutions designed to facilitate the study of membrane proteins and their interactions. Our nanodisc products provide a native-like lipid environment that preserves protein structure and function, making them indispensable tools for academic research, drug discovery, and biotechnology applications.
Our Advantages
1) A large list of ready-to-use standard nanodiscs in various sizes and lipid compositions
2) Custom nanodisc formulations tailored to your specific requirements
3) Superior Quality: Rigorous quality control ensures consistent, reliable products
4) Technical Expertise: Our team includes leading scientists with extensive nanodisc experience
5) Customization Capabilities: Ability to develop specialized formulations for unique research challenges
6) Scalability: Options ranging from research-scale to bulk quantities for industrial applications
7) Comprehensive Support: Detailed protocols, application notes, and responsive technical assistance
8) Innovation: Continuous product development based on the latest scientific advancements
9) Global Distribution: Efficient shipping and local support in key research regions
Highlights
1) Maintain native protein structure and function
2) Eliminate detergent-related denaturation effects
3) Provide a controllable, reproducible lipid environment
4) Enable solubilization of otherwise insoluble membrane proteins
5) Facilitate structural and functional studies of membrane proteins
6) Enhance stability of membrane proteins during purification and storage
7) Allow for precise control over lipid composition
Applications
1) Membrane protein structural biology (cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, NMR)
2) Drug discovery and development (target identification, lead screening)
3) Biophysical studies of protein-protein and protein-ligand interactions
4) Vaccine development and antigen presentation research
5) Biosensor development
6) Lipid-protein interaction studies
Product List of Nanodiscs
* For research use only. Not intended for any clinical use.