Resonance enhancement of two-photon absorption in fluorescent proteins

J Phys Chem B. 2007 Dec 20;111(50):14051-4. doi: 10.1021/jp075879k. Epub 2007 Nov 21.

Abstract

We measure two-photon absorption (2PA) spectra of wild-type green fluorescent protein, cyan fluorescent protein, and monomeric red fluorescent protein in absolute cross section values in a wide spectral range (lambda2PA = 550 - 1300 nm), and find, for the first time to our knowledge, a new S0 --> Sn 2PA transition in all three proteins in the short-wavelength region. This transition is strongly resonantly enhanced, showing 2PA cross section values of approximately 20-160 GM, which are at least 2-4 times higher than those measured in the lowest energy (S0 --> S1) transition of corresponding proteins. We also show that the change of permanent dipole moment upon S0 --> S1 excitation (|Deltamu10|) can be deduced from 2PA cross section, providing a new tool for fast evaluation of |Deltamu10| in physiological conditions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Absorption
  • Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer
  • Luminescent Proteins / chemistry*
  • Photons*
  • Spectrophotometry

Substances

  • Luminescent Proteins