Infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy: Principles and applications to lipid-protein interaction in Langmuir films

Richard Mendelsohn, Guangru Mao, Carol R. Flach

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

196 Scopus citations

Abstract

Infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy (IRRAS) of lipid/protein monolayer films in situ at the air/water interface provides unique molecular structure and orientation information from the film constituents. The technique is thus well suited for studies of lipid/protein interaction in a physiologically relevant environment. Initially, the nature of the IRRAS experiment is described and the molecular structure information that may be obtained is recapitulated. Subsequently, several types of applications, including the determination of lipid chain conformation and tilt as well as elucidation of protein secondary structure are reviewed. The current article attempts to provide the reader with an understanding of the current capabilities of IRRAS instrumentation and the type of results that have been achieved to date from IRRAS studies of lipids, proteins, and lipid/protein films of progressively increasing complexity. Finally, possible extensions of the technology are briefly considered.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)788-800
Number of pages13
JournalBiochimica et Biophysica Acta - Biomembranes
Volume1798
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 2010

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Biophysics
  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology

Keywords

  • Aqueous monolayers
  • Infrared spectroscopy
  • Langmuir films
  • Lipid conformation
  • Protein secondary structure
  • Pulmonary surfactant

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