[Zurück]

A. Schwaighofer, B. Lendl:
"Quantum cascade laser-based infrared transmission spectroscopy of proteins in solution";
in: "Vibrational Spectroscopy in Protein Research", Academic Press, Elsevier, New York, 2020, ISBN: 978-0-12-818610-7, S. 59 - 88.

Application of quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) enables new possibilities for protein analysis by mid-infrared (mid-IR) spectroscopy. These new possibilities mainly trace back to the different properties of these sources when compared to the broadband thermal sources typically employed in Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers. QCL-based setups can take advantage of the high spectral power densities, and also the coherent and inherently polarized nature of the used laser sources for developing new measurement modalities. This chapter provides an overview of different applications of QCLs for mid-IR spectroscopic analysis of proteins. Multiple approaches are presented for acquisition of broadband infrared spectra that are employed for qualitative and quantitative characterization of protein secondary structure and reach signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) superior to established FTIR spectroscopy. Expanding the limited spectral coverage currently is a subject of intensive development. For time-resolved studies of protein kinetics, QCLs offer to selectively record kinetic traces at individual wave numbers. Finally, the unique characteristics of QCLs make it possible to implement advanced measurement schemes that promise an innovative field of research and new applications in the upcoming years.

Infrared spectroscopy, quantum cascade, laser transmission spectroscopy, time-resolved secondary structure, protein dynamics

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-818610-7.00003-7