Structural properties of L-X-L-Met-L-Ala phosphonate tripeptides: a combined FT-IR, FT-RS, and SERS spectroscopy studies and DFT calculations

FT-IR and FT-RS spectra of three phosphonate tripeptides containing P-terminal L-Met-L-Ala L-Gly-L-Met-L-Ala-PO3H2 (GMA), L-Leu-L-Met-L-Ala-PO3H2 ( LMA), and L-Phe-L-Met-L-Ala-PO3H2 (PMA)] were recorded and analyzed. Vibrational wavenumbers and intensities were calculated by density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LYP/6-311++G** level of theory and compared to these molecules in solid form. On the basis of this comparison, conclusions were drawn about the molecular structures. At the same time, the experimental data served as a test for the computational results. SERS spectra were recorded in a silver colloidal dispersion. Silver colloidal dispersions prepared by simple borohydride reduction of silver nitrate were used as substrates. A comparison is made between the SERS spectra and the spectra of the solid sample. Also, the capability of SERS for spectral fingerprinting of analytes with close structural properties using easily prepared substrates and relatively simple instrumentation is illustrated. By careful analysis, we obtained information on the orientation of these tripeptides and specific-competitive interactions of their functional groups with the silver surface. For example, all molecules are thought to adsorb on a silver surface via a P=O bond and a sulfur atom. In addition, the amide bond of GMA assists in the adsorption process, adopting a tilted orientation on the surface, with the N-H unit being closer to the surface than the C=O moiety. Conversely, the C=O unit of the LMA-CONH- bond lies closer to the silver surface than the N-H moiety. The -CH 3 group and P-O bond of LMA additionally interact with the silver surface, whereas for PMA the L-Phe lies almost flat on the colloidal silver surface.