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How it works
Multimode systems work in a variety of ways depending
on the manufacturer, but in general, these systems
involve some kind of systems optics, hardware, and a
footprint that allows for the capture of data through
several parameters. For example, a system may be
able to measure DSF, or dynamic light scattering or
aggregation. The readings are not typically made
simultaneously, so consider the trade-offs of multiple
measures vs. time-to results.
Strengths
By having multiple measurement techniques in one
instrument, labs are afforded convenience and flexibility,
not to mention the potential cost-savings up-front.
Weaknesses
With a system that has multiple functions, data quality in
terms of accuracy and precision may be compromised. If
you need to constantly repeat experiments to get precise
data, then you may not save time or money in the long run.
Conclusion
There are advantages and disadvantages of an instrument
that uses more than one method to characterize protein
stability. It may be affordable and convenient, but there
may be tradeoffs in data quality.
There are instrumentation options for researchers that are able to capture different measurements on protein stability
with the same instrument. These may include intrinsic fluorescence, light scattering, aggregation and DSF approaches.
Multimode
