Abstract
Poly-γ-methyl- l-glutamate (PMG) spread as a monolayer at the air/water interface is capable of existing either in the α (helix coil) or in the β (pleated sheet) conformations. By suitable choice of a spreading solvent, the investigator may control which conformation is dominantly present in the interface. The β conformer is characterized by a high surface viscosity which fails with rising temperature, while the a conformer at an equivalent surface concentration exhibits a relatively low surface viscosity which increases irreversibly with temperature. We interpret these results to mean that the a helices are partly denatured by the surface environment, while the intermolecular hydrogen bonds in the β structure are weakened by rising temperature. In no case examined by us in a complete denaturation of the a helices to the β structure observed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
