Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Porphyrin As A Spectroscopic Probe Of Net Electric Fields In Heme Proteins, Hannah Elizabeth Wagie

Theses and Dissertations

Heme proteins have diverse functions as well as varied structures but share the same organic, conjugated cofactor. Similarly varied approaches have been taken to deduce how heme can take on different roles based on its protein environment. A unique approach is to view the protein matrix as a constellation of point charges that generates a defined, reproducible, net internal electric field that has influence over the electronic properties of the heme cofactor. This work considers how porphyrins, the basic chromophore building block of heme, can be used as a native spectroscopic sensor of internal electric field at the active site …