Raynals, an online tool for the analysis of dynamic light scattering

Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is routinely employed to assess the homogeneity and size-distribution profile of samples containing microscopic particles in suspension or solubilized polymers. In this work, Raynals, user-friendly software for the analysis of single-angle DLS data that uses the Tikhonov-Phillips regularization, is introduced. Its performance is evaluated on simulated and experimental data generated by different DLS instruments for several proteins and gold nanoparticles. DLS data can easily be misinterpreted and the simulation tools available in Raynals allow the limitations of the measurement and its resolution to be understood. It was designed as a tool to address the quality control of biological samples during sample preparation and optimization and it helps in the detection of aggregates, showing the influence of large particles. Lastly, Raynals provides flexibility in the way that the data are presented, allows the export of publication-quality figures, is free for academic use and can be accessed online on the eSPC data-analysis platform at https://spc.embl-hamburg.de/.

Automated summary

Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is widely used in assessing particle homogeneity and size distribution in samples. Raynals, a user-friendly software utilizing Tikhonov-Phillips regularization, is introduced for analyzing single-angle DLS data. The software's performance is evaluated on simulated and experimental data from various DLS instruments. It helps understand the limitations and resolution of DLS measurements and is particularly useful in quality control and aggregate detection in biological sample preparation. Raynals also offers flexible data presentation and allows export of publication-quality figures, and is available for free academic use online.