These areas all utilize the power of non-linear optical excitation methods. Polarization analysis additionally allows determination of the orientation of probe molecules. NSOM is a scanning probe technique that allows us to study cells at much higher resolution than possible by optical microscopy. We are also using NSOM combined with SHG and fluorescence lifetime measurements to study the biophysical effects of ligand addition at high resolution. Model membranes further allow control of the lipid composition.
Current work focuses on the binding of metal ions to mutant forms of the protein a-Hemolysin.
Resulting structures are characterized by SEM, AFM, and optical microscopy.