Ultrafast vibrational dynamics induced by the photodetachment of aqueous phenylalanine anion

Abstract

The interaction of biomolecules with ionising radiation in an aqueous environment is a fundamental process that is not well researched [1]. Understanding the photoionization or photodetachment of amino acids can help us better understand and solve problems related to radical chemistry and radioactive processes in natural systems [2]. In this study, we use femtosecond optical pump-probe spectroscopy to explore the photodetachment of the phenylalanine anion, an aromatic amino acid.