Polysaccharides are one of the largest classes of naturally occurring substances. They are found in every form of life where they exhibit complex structures and are associated with a wide range of biological functions. Their study is important in order to understand their structures, popoerties and biological functions. These goals can be achieved by the characterization of conformational, crystalline and morphological structural features of these substances. Dr. Sarko will use diffraction analysis, primarily X-rated and electron diffraction in this project. These methods will be complemented by computer- based model analysis. The purpose for this is both to increase the reliability of structural analysis and to make prediction of structure possible. The modeling techniques to be used will involve the methods of molecular and quantum mechanics and molecular dynamics.
