DETAIL MECHANISM OF THE VISUAL PROCESS: UNDERSTANDING AND EXTENDING VISION TO UV AND IR
Abstract
We propose to perform experimental studies on visual pigments aimed at elucidating the mechanism of colour vision. To that effect, we shall perform spectroscopic experiments, absorption and Raman, in order to determine the spectra and kinetics of formation and decay of the excited state(s) and metastable species, formed after excitation at the cone absorption maxima or where the rods do not absorb have a very low absorption cross-section. This shall be accomplished by means of ultrafast femtosecond, 10-15 s, spectroscopy. In addition, in order to determine the role of the Schiff-base proton(s) on the visual process, we shall perform studies on proton and deuterium translocation temperature varying from 300 K to 4 K. We are also designing experimental methods to extend the eye visual range to 350 nm in the UV using high quantum yield fluorescing molecules in the 530 nm region and microparticles that up-convert, by two-photon step-wise process absorption 850 nm -1200 nm to 550 nm.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2021
- Source ID
- FA95502010139
Entities
People
- Peter M. Rentzepis
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Texas A&M University
- United States Air Force