Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Proton Transfer and Protein Conformation Dynamics in Photosensitive Proteins by Time-resolved Step-scan Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Published on: June 27, 2014
Bacteriorhodopsin variants as versatile media in optical processing
1Institute for Physical Chemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Sophienstr. 11, D-80333 Muenchen, Germany.
Abstract:
The photochromic properties of bacteriorhodopsin (BR), in addition to its longevity and excellent reversibility, are attractive features for the construction of light-sensitive media for optical information processing. However, the various optical techniques require media with specifically adapted and widely differing properties. Genetic engineering of BR and biotechnological production of mutated BRs is the key for the utilization of this photochromic compound in optical applications. Mutated BRs, generated by single and double amino acid exchanges, have been used as recording media for optical applications such as phase conjugation or long-term data storage at room temperature.
Related Concept Videos
Channel Rhodopsins
Rhodopsins belong to the family of cell surface proteins called G-protein coupled receptors,...
Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways
Anoxygenic Photosynthesis

