Hydration Effects on Molecular Functions Revealed by Cryogenic Ion Spectroscopy

Gas-phase spectroscopy offers a unique opportunity to study the intrinsic properties of functional molecules by isolating them in a well-defined environment. To date, however, the experimental findings in the gas phase often fail to be directly connected to molecular functions under realistic conditions, such as in solution, due to the absence of solvent effects. In this study, I have investigated hydration effects, a key factor in molecular functions, using cutting-edge cryogenic ion spectroscopy combined with ion trapping techniques. I have revealed prominent hydration effects on ion recognition and proton transfer, demonstrating the utility of cryogenic ion spectroscopy for probing solvent-mediated molecular functions.