ISIS Neutron and Muon Source Data Journal

This is a page describing data taken during an experiment at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source. Information about the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source can be found at https://www.isis.stfc.ac.uk.


Revealing the hidden hierarchical mesoscale structure of protein-based hydrogels: From single proteins to interconnected networks of protein clusters

Abstract: Protein-based gels are a unique class of materials with intrinsic biocompatibility and biological functionality. Using small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and rheology, we previously demonstrated the scaling behaviour of folded and force-labile protein networks. SANS analysis revealed that the mesoscale structure of these systems consists of fractal clusters interconnected by folded/unfolded protein domains. However, a detailed understanding of these protein networks at larger length scales has not been completed. This is particularly important to (1) uncover the hidden hierarchical structure present at higher length scales, and (2) to determine cluster sizes at low protein concentrations, both of which are beyond the accessible range of conventional SANS (10s to 100s of ). In this proposal, we will employ spin-echo small-angle neutron scattering (SESANS) using Larmor to access length scales up to 10s of m. Combining SESANS data with established scaling laws will provide critical insight into multiscale mechanics of protein gels and advance the broader soft matter framework.

Principal Investigator: Professor Lorna Dougan
Experimenter: Miss Dimitra Katrantzi
Local Contact: Dr Gregory Smith
Experimenter: Mr Ahmad Boroumand

DOI: 10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610238

ISIS Experiment Number: RB2610238

Part DOI Instrument Public release date Download Link
10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610238-1 LARMOR 23 October 2029 Download

Publisher: STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source

Data format: RAW/Nexus
Select the data format above to find out more about it.

Data Citation

The recommended format for citing this dataset in a research publication is as:
[author], [date], [title], [publisher], [doi]

For Example:
Professor Lorna Dougan et al; (2026): Revealing the hidden hierarchical mesoscale structure of protein-based hydrogels: From single proteins to interconnected networks of protein clusters, STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, https://doi.org/10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610238

Data is released under the CC-BY-4.0 license.



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