Proteins and Light

Proteins absorb light, and visual light typically leaves the protein intact. This is not the case, however, for ultra-violet light. The photon energy is high, and sometimes photophysical reactions take place. We have documented inactivation of a triglyceride lipase in response to UV light. In this particular case we have a molecular level understanding of the underlying mechanism for the inactivation, which is rather novel. We envision that such studies may lead to a deeper knowledge of UV damage to living tissues and means of damage prevention. (Teresa Neves Petersen, Steffen B. Petersen)