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Light-Modulated Cationic and Anionic Transport across Protein Biopolymers*
Alex Burnstine-Townley1, Somen Mondal1, Yuval Agam1
1Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 3200003, Israel.
Angewandte Chemie (International Ed. in English)
|September 7, 2021
Summary
This study demonstrates light control over ion conductivity in protein biopolymers. Researchers developed a method to modulate proton and hydroxide charge carriers using light, opening new avenues for smart materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Photochemistry
- Biophysics
Background:
- Light is a fundamental energy source in natural systems and artificial devices.
- Controlling chemical properties and charge carrier concentration in materials with light is crucial for advanced applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate light-modulation of chemical nature and ionic charge carrier concentration in protein-based biopolymers.
- To explore the use of photoacids and photobases for light-controlled proton and hydroxide transfer within a biopolymer matrix.
Main Methods:
- Covalent functionalization of a protein-based biopolymer with photoacids and photobases.
- Utilizing excited-state proton transfer and capture mechanisms.
- Conducting electrical measurements to assess ionic conductivity changes under light.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated light-modulated increase in ionic conductivity for both photoacid- and photobase-functionalized biopolymers.
- Identified cationic protons as charge carriers in photoacid-functionalized systems.
- Suggested water-derived anionic hydroxides as charge carriers in photobase-functionalized systems.
Conclusions:
- Introduced a versatile toolbox for photomodulating proton and hydroxide charge carriers in polymers.
- Highlighted the potential of these light-responsive biopolymers for various applications.
- Established a novel approach for light-driven control over ionic conductivity in bio-based materials.
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