Photoelectric Frequency Response in a Bioinspired Bacteriorhodopsin/Alumina Nanochannel Hybrid Nanosystem

Inspired by the microstructure of rod cell, a bacteriorhodopsin/alumina nanochannel hybrid system is demonstrated that converts flickering light impulses below 130 Hz into distinguishable patterns of photocurrent to mimic frequency-responsive characteristic of mammalian retina in vitro. An optimal response frequency is identified with unique dependency on bacteriorhodopsin thickness rather than the proton concentration gradient and pore size of the alumina nanochannel. As a service to our authors and readers, this journal provides supporting information supplied by the authors. Such materials are peer reviewed and may be re-organized for online delivery, but are not copy-edited or typeset. Technical support issues arising from supporting information (other than missing files) should be addressed to the authors. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.