Fluorescence Resonance Energy

• Applicant: Dr. Jochen Friedrich
• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry of Molecules, Liquids and Interfaces, Biophysical Chemistry
• Term: from 2003 to 2004
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5408565

The fluorescence energy transfer of a fluorescence donor group to an acceptor group will be investigated in respect of determining intramolecular distances of gas-phase protein ions. For this purpose a new instrument will be constructed. Ions will be produced by an electrospray source, mass selected by a quadrupole mass filter and stored in a linear quadrupole trap for laser induced fluorescence (LIF) measurement. A Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Mass Spectrometer (FTIRCR-MS) allows for high resolution mass analysis. It is planned to use rigid gas-phase polypeptids as model compounds to explore this method. Polypeptides of different length will be labeled with a fluorescent donor (Tryptophan) and acceptor (Dansyl) group and the distance dependence of the fluorescence lifetime of Tryptophan emission ivestigated. In order to allow for future intramolecular distance determination of gas-phase proteins, the Förster distance for this donor/acceptor pair will be determined.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: USA
• Cooperation Partner: Professor Dr. Alan G. Marshall