Single-Shot Sub-microsecond Mid-infrared Spectroscopy on Protein Reactions with Quantum Cascade Laser Frequency Combs

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Date
2018-09-04Type
- Journal Article
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Cited 84 times in
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Cited 110 times in
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Abstract
The kinetic analysis of irreversible protein reactions requires an analytical technique that provides access to time-dependent infrared spectra in a single shot. Here, we present a spectrometer based on dual-frequency-comb spectroscopy using mid-infrared frequency combs generated by quantum cascade lasers. Attenuation of the intensity of the combs by molecular vibrational resonances results in absorption spectra covering 55 cm–1 in the fingerprint region. The setup has a native resolution of 0.3 cm–1, noise levels in the μOD range, and achieves sub-microsecond time resolution. We demonstrate the simultaneous recording of both spectra and transients of the photoactivated proton pump bacteriorhodopsin. More importantly, a single shot, i.e., a single visible light excitation, is sufficient to extract spectral and kinetic characteristics of several intermediates in the bacteriorhodopsin photocycle. This development paves the way for the noninvasive analysis of enzymatic conversions with high time resolution, broad spectral coverage, and minimal sample consumption. Show more
Permanent link
https://doi.org/10.3929/ethz-b-000289812Publication status
publishedExternal links
Journal / series
Analytical ChemistryVolume
Pages / Article No.
Publisher
American Chemical SocietyOrganisational unit
03759 - Faist, Jérôme / Faist, Jérôme
Funding
178942 - Monolithic, self referenced quantum cascade laser frequency comb in the mid-infrared (SNF)
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Show all metadata
Citations
Cited 84 times in
Web of Science
Cited 110 times in
Scopus
ETH Bibliography
yes
Altmetrics