Binding Properties 2022

As we all know, interactions between molecules are of great importance for all living beings. For example, many processes in an organism are modulated by the interaction of chemical messengers with their respective targets. Thus, the knowledge of these interactions as well as their magnitude is highly relevant to the understanding of an organism’s functionality. Moreover, certain interactions can, for example, be altered in a controlled manner by the administration of drugs. Hence, the analysis of molecular interactions is very relevant during the development of novel pharmaceuticals. To determine interactions precisely and reliably requires sophisticated analytical techniques. Capillary electrophoresis has been well-established as an effective technique for this purpose. Nevertheless, there are still many unanswered questions as well as challenges related to this topic. For this reason, it was decided to dedicate a special issue to Binding Properties. We are delighted to present the articles on this subject in this issue. Besides a very well-written and detailed review article on Affinity Capillary Electrophoresis by Sharmeen et al., two articles that are more specific have been included. The first of these two articles analyzes and describes the dependence of the interaction of phenolic acids and certain cyclodextrins on extrinsic factors such as pH or temperature. The special feature of this great article is that the factors were modeled using global statistical analysis. The other article addresses the adsorption of proteins on nanoparticles with nanostructured surfaces. The authors provide an excellent mathematical model for the characterization of the interactions. Particular emphasis was devoted to the modeling of the charge on the surfaces. With this model, it is possible to improve the understanding of the adsorption properties of certain proteins on nanoparticles. Altogether, we are incredibly proud to participate in this special issue as guest editors. It was a precious experience to accompany the process of creating such a project. Therefore, we would like to thank the Editors in Chief Blanca Lapizco-Encinas and Hermann Wätzig for giving us the opportunity to realize this issue. Additionally, we would of course like to express our gratitude to the staff of the Journal, especially to Heather Symons. Without your support, we would not have been able to complete this task. Finally, our appreciation goes to all reviewers and authors. A journal only becomes what it is meant to be through your hard work.