WP9003: VLP Characterization with the Light Scattering Toolbox

Virus-Like Particles (VLPs) are biomolecular nanoparticles formed by controlled self-assembly of viral structural proteins. Lacking viral DNA for replication, VLPs are capable of triggering an immune response without the risk of infection and have been proven to be safe yet highly immunogenic. A unique challenge is the need to distinguish between unincorporated protomers (capsid proteins), capsomeres (sub-units of the VLP), well-formed capsids (viral envelopes), and intermediate or malformed fragments. Light scattering for characterization of VLPs comes in three primary varieties.