The momentum distribution of protons in the hydration shell of a globular protein has been measured through deep inelastic neutron scattering at 180 and 290 K, below and above the crossover temperature T-c=1.23T(g), where T-g=219 K is the glass transition temperature. It is found that the mean kinetic energy of the water hydrogens shows no temperature dependence, but the measurements are accurate enough to indicate a sensible change of momentum distribution and effective potential felt by protons, compatible with the transition from a single to a double potential well. This could support the presence of tunneling effects even at room temperature, playing an important role in biological function.

Senesi, R., Pietropaolo, A., Bocedi, A., Pagnotta, S., Bruni, F. (2007). Proton momentum distribution in a protein hydration shell. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS, 98(13) [10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.138102].

Proton momentum distribution in a protein hydration shell

SENESI, ROBERTO;PIETROPAOLO, ANTONINO;Bocedi, A;
2007-01-01

Abstract

The momentum distribution of protons in the hydration shell of a globular protein has been measured through deep inelastic neutron scattering at 180 and 290 K, below and above the crossover temperature T-c=1.23T(g), where T-g=219 K is the glass transition temperature. It is found that the mean kinetic energy of the water hydrogens shows no temperature dependence, but the measurements are accurate enough to indicate a sensible change of momentum distribution and effective potential felt by protons, compatible with the transition from a single to a double potential well. This could support the presence of tunneling effects even at room temperature, playing an important role in biological function.
2007
Pubblicato
Rilevanza internazionale
Articolo
Sì, ma tipo non specificato
Settore FIS/03 - FISICA DELLA MATERIA
English
Con Impact Factor ISI
Senesi, R., Pietropaolo, A., Bocedi, A., Pagnotta, S., Bruni, F. (2007). Proton momentum distribution in a protein hydration shell. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS, 98(13) [10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.138102].
Senesi, R; Pietropaolo, A; Bocedi, A; Pagnotta, S; Bruni, F
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/2108/33614
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