X-ray studies on top component a and bottom component of alfalfa mosaic virus

Abstract

Small-angle X-ray-scattering measurements have been made on dilute solutions of two of the separated components of alfalfa mosaic virus. Top component a has an electronic radius of gyration of 129 Å and bottom component 216 Å. These results are accurate to about 5%. The extended scattering curve is in best agreement with a prolate, roughly cylindrical, shape for each particle. Top component a has a diameter of about 230 Å and a length of 350 Å. For bottom component the diameter is 220 Å and the length 700 Å. These results are not as reliable as the radii of gyration. Rather large hydrations are indicated for both particles.