tRNA as a stabilizing matrix for fluorescent silver clusters: photophysical properties and IR study

In this experimental study fluorescent silver clusters on a tRNA matrix were synthesized for the first time. Two types of fluorescent complexes emitting in the green (550 nm) and red (635 nm) regions of the visible spectrum were obtained. Using FTIR spectroscopy, we identified possible binding sites for the clusters, which appeared to be within the helical regions of tRNA. It was also shown that tRNA retained its double helical structure after the cluster formation, which is essential for its functionality. Two types of fluorescent silver clusters can be synthesized on tRNAs: green and red-emitting ones.