Chapter 13: Elementary Processes of Molecular Dynamics in Aqueous Biopolymer Systems

Regarding molecular dynamics, the constituents of aqueous systems of biological macromolecules, such as solutions of globular proteins, can be subdivided into bulk and hydration water, and macromolecular backbone and side chains. Partial or complete deuteration of water and partial or complete immobilization of the macromolecules at high concentrations allow identification and analysis of dominant processes. Field-cycling NMR relaxometry data are compared with model concepts related to backbone fluctuations and protein surface diffusion of water molecules.