Crystal structure analysis of molecular dynamics using synchrotron X-rays

Abstract

Recent developments of X-ray crystallography using synchrotron X-rays have made it an improved analytical approach compared with the previously used temporally and spatially averaged observations in an analyte crystal. The short-pulse character of synchrotron X-rays enables conduction of a time-resolved X-ray experiment to observe the temporal three-dimensional dynamics in a crystal. This experimental technique is useful for studies regarding photo-induced phenomena. Additionally, high intensity X-rays from a synchrotron source are effective for investigating thermal dynamics of molecules in a crystal with atomic resolution. In both cases, the dynamic nature of the molecule and molecular aggregation in a crystal are deeply involved in its function as a material. Molecular dynamics of a crystal lead to a change of the physical properties of the crystalline phase. Examples for three-dimensional observations of molecular dynamics with atomic resolution using synchrotron X-ray are summarized.