Interaction kinetics

Analysis of binding experiments is based on a simple model, called the "law of mass action" (1), (2), (3). Binding occurs when analyte (A) and ligand (L) collide due to diffusion, and when the collision has the correct orientation and enough energy, thus forming a complex (LA). Once binding has occurred, the ligand and analyte remain bound together for a random amount of time. After the interaction the components leave each other unchanged as opposed to enzyme kinetics.
The interaction kinetics can be subdivided in three distinct phases.

• Association: two or more molecules bind to each other
• Steady state: the amount of molecules that is binding is equal to the amount of bonds that is breaking
• Dissociation: the breaking of the bounds between the molecules

Each of the three phases contains information over the interaction between the molecules in terms of how fast the association or dissociation is and how strong the overall interaction.

Regeneration

When the dissociation is very slow, it takes a long time before both components are free. Therefore, a solution with for instance low pH or high salt is injected to break the interaction. This fourth phase is referred to as the regeneration.