Chiral configuration in the complexes of poly (Nε‐alkyl‐ L ‐lysine)s with alkylamino azo dyes

Absorption and circular dichroism (CD) spectra were measured on the complexes of poly(Nε‐alkyl‐L‐lysine)s and alkyl azo dyes. Absolute configuration of the complexes was examined by the exciton chirality method. Most complexes show S‐chirality of the transition dipole moments of dyes. Increased hydrophobic properties of both dye molecule and polypeptide side‐chains change the chirality of dye from common S‐ to uncommon R‐chirality. The induced CD results are discussed from the point of view of hydrogen bonding, electrostatic, and hydrophobic properties of both dyes and polypeptides.