NMR goes bananas
A new type of multiply functionalized natural tetrapyrrole , known as Ma-FCC-61, is found in ripening or senescent parts of the banana plant as the breakdown of chlorophyll takes place. An NMR spectroscopic study reveals details and shows that these unique tetrapyrroles carry complex ester functions at the propionyl side chain. These colourful degradation products may act to attract fruit-eating animals that then spread the plant's seeds.
[July 15, 2010]
Problems, artifacts and solutions in the INADEQUATE NMR experiment
[registered users only]
The INADEQUATE experiment can provide unequalled, detailed information about the carbon skeleton of an organic molecule. However, it also has the reputation of requiring unreasonable amounts of sample. Modern spectrometers and probes have mitigated this problem, and it is now possible to get good structural data on a few milligrams of a typical organic small molecule.
[July 14, 2010]
Cheating spectroscopy
REDOR, a new form of NMR has been used by researchers in the US to figure out why the cheatgrass weed out-strips soy crops, particularly in higher carbon dioxide. Their results have serious implications for agriculture in the face of climate change.
[July 1, 2010]
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