Advanced spectrometer with time-resolved mid-infrared and near-infrared capabilities for studies of membrane proteins and polymers

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FTIR spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique, which enables researchers to look into structural properties of biological samples and polymers quickly and non-destructively. It can be used in static and time-resolved modes, where the latter allows following functional changes of biomolecules in real time. We request modern FTIR spectrometer with microsecond time-resolved capabilities (so called step-scan) and broad spectral range, which gives possibility to study not only proteins (mid-infrared) but also polymers and other complex media (near-infrared). We will apply these techniques to a wide range of scientific problems, ranging from studies of biologically and medically important membrane proteins serving as transporters of ions, water, and small molecules to structure of industrially relevant polymers. In particular, we will study novel microbial photosensors and light-driven ion pumps (microbial rhodopsins), human water channels (aquaporins) and hormone receptors (G-protein coupled receptors), and bacterial osmosensors (ProP). Besides serving as a powerful structural method by itself, FTIR will be also used as a quality control technique for another cutting-edge structural technique, solid-state NMR, for which University of Guelph has excellent facilities and active research program. Such research on structure and function of membrane proteins has broad biomedical impact, as these proteins constitute about a half of drug targets on the market. Finally, we will employ near-infrared capability of FTIR spectrometer to look at structural details of industrial polymers with the aim of rational design of their improved composition.