Frontiers of NMR in Biology (A3) 2011

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is now a well-established tool for determining structures of small to moderate size biomacromolecules. The horizon is expanding, however, through recent methodological advances, including the evolution of approaches that combine NMR with computational, X-ray crystallographic, cryo-electron microscopic, and single molecule methodologies. These have led to unprecedented insights into structure, dynamics, and mechanisms, even in large systems, making NMR a premier tool for studying macromolecular function. This symposium will highlight the latest technological advances in NMR spectroscopy, as well as recent bio-functional discoveries made using these approaches. Emphasis will be placed on systems that challenge the current technology, including high-molecular weights, membrane proteins, folding and dynamics, transient states, and drug discovery. In addition, the symposium will provide a forum for discussions on the needs and efforts to consolidate the best approaches, and on the latest advances and new trends in biological NMR.