Acquisition of a Fourier Transform (X-band) Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectrometer

University Of Alabama Tuscaloosa, Tuscaloosa AL

Investigators

Abstract

With support from the Chemistry Research Instrumentation and Facilities (CRIF) Program, the Department of Chemistry at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa will acquire an Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) Spectrometer. Some of the studies that will exploit this instrument include a) the structure of intermediates upon photoionization of carotenoids in mesoporous molecular sieves; b) formation of porous materials; c) ligand bridges on tetra-nuclear chromium assemblies within the insulin-signaling chromodulin oligopeptide; and d) interactions of the protein with electron transfer cofactors of Photosystem I. An electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometer is an instrument used to obtain information about the molecular and electronic structure of molecules. It may also be used to obtain information about the lifetimes of free radicals, which are often essential for the initiation of tumor growth and/or a variety of chemical reactions. These studies will have an impact in a number of areas, in particular biological chemistry.