By Andi Anderson
Photosynthesis is the process that allows plants to convert sunlight into energy. A critical part of this system is photosystem II, a protein complex found in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. However, exposure to too much sunlight can damage photosystem II, reducing photosynthetic efficiency.
Researchers at Purdue University, led by biochemists Steven McKenzie and Sujith Puthiyaveetil, have uncovered how photosystem II repairs itself, a discovery that could help enhance photosynthetic efficiency in crops. Their findings were published in Plant Communications.
The Role of Photosystem II
Photosystem II is responsible for splitting water molecules, releasing oxygen, electrons, and protons. This process has powered life on Earth for over 2 billion years. However, sunlight-induced damage forces plants to continuously repair and replace damaged proteins in photosystem II, a process that requires significant energy.
How Photosystem II Repairs Itself
The research team found that two mechanisms help disassemble and repair photosystem II:
- Protein phosphorylation – Adding phosphate groups to proteins aids in disassembly and repair.
- Oxidative protein modification – Damage from oxidation helps break down and replace damaged proteins.
Potential Agricultural Benefits
The repair process is essential for maintaining photosynthetic efficiency. If the repair rate slows down, photosynthesis decreases, especially in high light, drought, or extreme temperatures. Genetic modifications to improve photosystem II repair could enhance crop yields.
Future Research and Applications
By altering phosphorylation levels, scientists can study how changes in repair mechanisms affect plant growth. This research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and USDA, could help engineer plants with better photosynthetic performance.
This discovery may lead to more resilient crops, improving global food production and sustainability.
Photo Credit: pexels-mayukh-karmakar
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