X-Ray source which can simultaneously detect spectral and spatial variations could have huge benefits for medical research

A pioneering technique which for the first time allows simultaneous detection of both the spectral and spatial variation of an X-ray beam has been developed by researchers at the University of Southampton.

This novel technology developed jointly by researchers from the University's School of Physics and Astronomy, Optoelectronics Research Centre, and School of Chemistry is reported in the current advance online publication of Nature Physics (4 Feb 2007).

The research team used ultrafast lasers to produce soft X-rays using a technique called high harmonic generation. With this new technique they can see the position of each wavelength in the beam from a single image of the beam diffracted from a metal grid. The ability to monitor the X-ray spectrum at each point in the beam's profile simultaneously has not previously been achieved.

Using this technology, the team is now developing X-ray scattering experiments which will measure the shape of single protein molecules. This shape information is critical in the search for understanding of exactly how proteins work.

"In the long term, this technology could create huge benefits for the medical sector," explains research member Dr Bill Brocklesby of the University's Optoelectronics Research Centre. "Measuring the shape of single protein molecules will allow for advances in understanding of several fatal diseases which are caused when the shaping of proteins has gone wrong. CJD is an example of one of the many diseases which are believed to be based on the shape of proteins.

"We are fortunate to have the range of disciplines across physics, lasers technology and chemistry here at Southampton to make this collaborative work possible."

The work is supported by Research Councils UK through the Basic Technology programme, an initiative that provides a platform for researchers to develop new technologies which will enable pushing forward the boundaries of science.