Pulse radiolysis of aromatic amino acids - State of the art.

The pulse radiolysis method as well as the primary processes of water radiolysis and the spectroscopic characteristics of H, OH, HO2/O2 (-) and e aq (-) are briefly presented. Subsequently, kinetic and spectroscopic data of the transients resulting from the resolved multi site attack on aromatic amino acids are discussed. The reactivity of H and e aq (-) with the same substrates, as well as the effect of oxygen on the major radiolytic processes are reviewed. Finally, the formation of tryptophan radical cation is mentioned shortly. The presented radiation mechanisms are the fundamentals for radiolytic processes occurring in proteins, enzymes and hormones in the living cells.