Spectral inhomogeneity and wavelength-dependent rotation of probe molecules in membranes.

Using subnanosecond laser spectrofluorometry, the spectral and polarization time-resolved characteristics of 1-phenylnaphthylamine (1-AN) fluorescent probe in phospholipid bilayer and red blood cell (RBC) membranes have been studied. It is shown that the electronic spectra of the probe in model-membranes are inhomogeneously broadened. In contrast to low-molecular weight solvents, there are two reasons for inhomogeneous broadening. The first is connected with different levels of location of probe molecules in the membrane. Inhomogeneous broadening due to the first factor has a static character. The second reason is similar to that of solutions and linked with fluctuations of solvate structure. This type of broadening has a dynamic character. The process of intermolecular relaxation in membranes is accompanied by the release of the free energy excess, which results in wavelength-dependent rotation of probe.