Mid-IR Laser Spectroscopy for Protein Analysis in Aqueous Solution

There is a need for advanced techniques for protein analysis and characterization in various fields including fundamental research in life sciences, industrial bio-process monitoring as well as bio-medical diagnostics. Ideally such a technique should allow for non-destructive, label-free analysis providing both qualitative and quantitative information on the proteins under investigation. Mid-IR spectroscopy is capable to deliver such information as it probes strong, fundamental vibrations of molecules. With respect to protein analysis determination of the secondary structure (α-helix, β-sheet, random coil, etc. …) of a given protein is the most relevant qualitative information accessible by mid-IR spectroscopy.