Gold nanoparticles surface plasmon field effects on the proton pump process of the bacteriorhodopsin photosynthesis

The rate of the proton pump of bacteriorhodopsin photosynthetic system is examined in the presence of a gold nanorod plasmon field. It is found that while the rate of the proton dissociation from the protonated Schiff base is not affected, the rate of its reprotonation increases. These results are qualitatively discussed in terms of several possible mechanisms. © 2009 American Chemical Society