Mechanisms for the direct electron transfer of cytochrome c induced by multi-walled carbon nanotubes

Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-modified electrodes can promote the direct electron transfer (DET) of cytochrome c (Cyt c). There are several possible mechanisms that explain the DET of Cyt c. In this study, several experimental methods, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, circul...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Sensors (Basel, Switzerland) Switzerland), 2012-08, Vol.12 (8), p.10450-10462
Main Authors: Zhao, Hua-Zhang, Du, Qian, Li, Zhen-Shan, Yang, Qin-Zheng
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animals
Carbon
Cytochrome
cytochrome c (Cyt c)
Cytochromes
Cytochromes c - chemistry
Cytochromes c - metabolism
direct electron transfer (DET)
Electrodes
Electron transfer
Electrons
Exposure
Fourier transforms
Horses
Multi wall carbon nanotubes
multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)
Nanocomposites
Nanomaterials
Nanostructure
Nanotubes, Carbon - chemistry
Orientation
Proteins
secondary structure
Sensors
Spectrum Analysis
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Summary:Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-modified electrodes can promote the direct electron transfer (DET) of cytochrome c (Cyt c). There are several possible mechanisms that explain the DET of Cyt c. In this study, several experimental methods, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, circular dichroism, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy were utilized to investigate the conformational changes of Cyt c induced by MWCNTs. The DET mechanism was demonstrated at various nano-levels: secondary structure, spatial orientation, and spin state. In the presence of MWCNTs, the secondary structure of Cyt c changes, which exposes the active site, then, the orientation of the heme is optimized, revolving the exposed active center to the optimum spatial orientation for DET; and finally, a transition of spin states is induced, providing relatively high energy and a more open microenvironment for electron transfer. These changes at different nano-levels are closely connected and form a complex process that promotes the electron transfer of Cyt c.
ISSN:1424-8220
1424-8220
DOI:10.3390/s120810450