Insights into the molecular architecture of a peptide nanotube using FTIR and solid-state NMR spectroscopic measurements on an aligned sample.

Queuing up: Molecular orientation within macroscopically aligned nanotubes of the peptide AAAAAAK can be studied by solid-state NMR and IR spectroscopy. Line shape analysis of the NMR spectra indicates that the peptide N-H bonds are tilted 65-70° relative to the nanotube long axis. Re-evaluation of earlier X-ray fiber diffraction data suggests that the peptide molecules are hydrogen-bonded in a helical arrangement along the nanotube axis.