Dear JPK,
to answer your first question, at atomic resolution you would notice a density
difference between N and C. At a little less resolution you might still
measure difference in bond length.
Regrds,
Tim
On Thursday, November 10, 2016 8:41:43 PM CET Keller, Jacob wrote:
> Dear Crystallographers,
>
> I don't think there is any feasible way crystallographically to distinguish
> between nitrate and carbonate or bicarbonate-correct? But that is not my
> main question.
>
> My main question is: given that nitrate and carbonate are both very
> important and also very different physiologically, and therefore they must
> be distinguished/recognized by cells, how is this done, since the ions are
> so similar in structure? Is there some aspect of these ions that differs
> dramatically of which I am not aware? What kind of "handles" could a
> protein grab onto to distinguish between nitrate and carbonate/bicarbonate?
>
> JPK
>
>
> *******************************************
> Jacob Pearson Keller, PhD
> Research Scientist
> HHMI Janelia Research Campus / Looger lab
> Phone: (571)209-4000 x3159
> Email: [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>
> *******************************************
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Tim Gruene
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