DAWN™

The Multi-Angle Light Scattering (MALS) detectors from WYATT are powerful instruments designed for precise characterization of macromolecules and nanoparticles in solution. They provide invaluable data on the absolute molar mass, size, and shape of a variety of substances, including peptides, proteins, polymers, conjugates, and nanoparticles, allowing for in-depth analysis without the need for column calibration. These detectors use light scattering to measure the distribution of macromolecular size and molecular weight, offering the highest sensitivity and precision for characterizing large molecules or nanomaterials.

DAWN™

The DAWN™ is the world’s most advanced MALS instrument, designed for the comprehensive analysis of macromolecules and nanoparticles in solution. Whether used with SEC-MALS (Size Exclusion Chromatography with MALS) on an HPLC setup, in conjunction with Eclipse field-flow fractionation, or as a standalone device with a Calypso, the DAWN™ provides an unmatched range of sensitivity and measurement capabilities. This instrument is ideal for analyzing proteins, peptides, polymers, conjugates, and nanoparticles across a wide molecular weight range, from 200 Da to 1 GDa. Key features include:

• Ultra-sensitive measurements: Ideal for low-concentration macromolecule detection.
• Wide measurement range: From 10 to 500 nm in molecular size (Rg), with options for size-specific models up to 1000 nm.
• Additional features: Optional dynamic light scattering (DLS), temperature control, and automated flow-cell cleaning for more flexible applications.

miniDAWN™

The miniDAWN™ is a compact yet powerful MALS detector designed for basic macromolecular analysis. It is optimized for analyzing smaller peptides, proteins, and nanoparticles in solution. The miniDAWN™ determines absolute molecular weights and sizes, eliminating the need for column calibration and providing direct and accurate results. It’s compatible with SEC/GPC setups and offers reliable characterization for a wide range of applications. Key features include:

• Compact design: Ideal for routine analyses in laboratories with limited space.
• Measurement range: From 200 Da to 10 MDa for molar mass, with a molecular size range of 10 to 50 nm.
• DLS option: Optional embedded dynamic light scattering for added analysis of molecular behavior.

microDAWN™

The microDAWN™ is the first MALS detector specifically designed for UHPLC systems. It provides uncompromised sensitivity and precision for macromolecular analysis in ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC). This system is ideal for characterizing proteins, peptides, and nanoparticles below 50 nm in radius, making it an invaluable tool for applications that require high-resolution measurements at very small molecular scales. It can be used in conjunction with the Optilab differential refractometer for even greater precision. Key features include:

• High sensitivity: As low as 3.5 ng for 100 kDa polystyrene, enabling detailed analysis of small samples.
• Molecular size analysis: Range from 10 to 50 nm (Rg) and 0.5 nm to 1 µm (Rh with DLS).
• DLS option: Optional dynamic light scattering for an in-depth analysis of molecular size distributions.

ultraDAWN™

The ultraDAWN™ is a breakthrough technology designed for process analytical technology (PAT). It enables real-time monitoring of critical quality attributes (CQAs) such as weight-average molecular weight (Mw) and rms radius (Rg) during the production of nanoparticles, biopharmaceuticals, and polymers. This on-line or in-line detector allows manufacturers to monitor and control product quality during production, ensuring optimal processing conditions and product consistency. Key features include:

• Real-time process monitoring: Directly measures critical parameters during manufacturing.
• Molecular range: From 1 kDa to 1 GDa for molar mass and 10 to 250 nm for size.
• Process optimization: Supports the efficient production of biopharmaceuticals and advanced materials with rapid feedback on quality control.

Comparison of Features Across MALS Detectors

• Measurement Range: From 200 Da to 1 GDa for DAWN™, miniDAWN™, and microDAWN™, with the ultraDAWN™ extending from 1 kDa to 1 GDa.
• Molecular Size Range (Rg): DAWN™ offers the widest range (10 to 500 nm), while miniDAWN™ and microDAWN™ measure from 10 to 50 nm, and ultraDAWN™ handles up to 250 nm.
• Sensitivity: microDAWN™ provides the highest sensitivity for ultra-low concentration measurements, with a detection limit as low as 3.5 ng for 100 kDa polystyrene.
• Integrated DLS Module: Available in DAWN™, miniDAWN™, and microDAWN™ (optional WyattQELS™), but not in ultraDAWN™.
• Temperature Control: DAWN™ provides a broad temperature range from ultra-high to +210°C, whereas the others are limited to ambient temperatures.

Applications

These MALS detectors have a wide range of applications, including:

• Macromolecular characterization: For peptides, proteins, conjugates, and polymers in various solvents.
• Nanoparticle analysis: For the characterization of nanoparticle size and molecular weight in solution.
• Biopharmaceuticals: Monitoring the size and molecular weight of biologics during development.
• Polymer science: Characterizing the molecular weight distribution of synthetic polymers.

Conclusion

The Wyatt MALS Detectors are essential instruments for advanced research in macromolecular characterization and nanoparticle analysis. Whether for routine quality control or cutting-edge research, these detectors provide highly accurate, sensitive, and reliable data for a variety of applications in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and polymer industries. Their versatility, combined with optional configurations such as dynamic light scattering (DLS) and temperature control, makes them an indispensable tool in any analytical laboratory.

For more detailed information on features and specifications, visit the official WYATT website.