The Experts below are selected from a list of 285 Experts worldwide ranked by ideXlab platform

Bruno Robert - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Vibrational techniques applied to photosynthesis: Resonance Raman and fluorescence line-narrowing.
    BBA - Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, 2015
    Co-Authors: Andrew A Gall, Andrew A Pascal, Bruno Robert
    Abstract:

    Resonance Raman spectroscopy may yield precise information on the conformation of, and the interactions assumed by, the chromophores involved in the first steps of the Photosynthetic Process. Selectivity is achieved via resonance with the absorption transition of the chromophore of interest. Fluorescence line-narrowing spectroscopy is a complementary technique, in that it provides the same level of information (structure, conformation, interactions), but in this case for the emitting pigment(s) only (whether isolated or in an ensemble of interacting chromophores). The selectivity provided by these vibrational techniques allows for the analysis of pigment molecules not only when they are isolated in solvents, but also when embedded in soluble or membrane proteins and even, as shown recently, in vivo. They can be used, for instance, to relate the electronic properties of these pigment molecules to their structure and/or the physical properties of their environment. These techniques are even able to follow subtle changes in chromophore conformation associated with regulatory Processes. After a short introduction to the physical principles that govern resonance Raman and fluorescence line-narrowing spectroscopies, the information content of the vibrational spectra of chlorophyll and carotenoid molecules is described in this article, together with the experiments which helped in determining which structural parameter(s) each vibrational band is sensitive to. A selection of applications is then presented, in order to illustrate how these techniques have been used in the field of photosynthesis, and what type of information has been obtained. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Vibrational spectroscopies and bioenergetic systems.

  • Resonance Raman spectroscopy
    Photosynthesis Research, 2009
    Co-Authors: Bruno Robert
    Abstract:

    Resonance Raman spectroscopy may yield precise information on the conformation of, and on the interactions assumed by, the chromophores involved in the first steps of the Photosynthetic Process, whether isolated in solvents, embedded in soluble or membrane proteins, or, as shown recently, in vivo. By making use of this technique, it is possible, for instance, to relate the electronic properties of these molecules to their structure and/or the physical properties of their environment, or to determine subtle changes of their conformation associated with regulatory Processes. After a short introduction to the physical principles that govern resonance Raman spectroscopy, the information content of resonance Raman spectra of chlorophyll and carotenoid molecules is described in this review, together with the experiments which helped in determining which structural parameter each Raman band is sensitive to. A selection of applications of this technique is then presented, in order to give a fair and precise idea of which type of information can be obtained from its use in the field of photosynthesis.

Donald R Ort - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • what is the maximum efficiency with which photosynthesis can convert solar energy into biomass
    Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 2008
    Co-Authors: Xinguang Zhu, Stephen P Long, Donald R Ort
    Abstract:

    Photosynthesis is the source of our food and fiber. Increasing world population, economic development, and diminishing land resources forecast that a doubling of productivity is critical in meeting agricultural demand before the end of this century. A starting point for evaluating the global potential to meet this goal is establishing the maximum efficiency of Photosynthetic solar energy conversion. The potential efficiency of each step of the Photosynthetic Process from light capture to carbohydrate synthesis is examined. This reveals the maximum conversion efficiency of solar energy to biomass is 4.6% for C3 photosynthesis at 30 °C and today's 380 ppm atmospheric [CO2], but 6% for C4 photosynthesis. This advantage over C3 will disappear as atmospheric [CO2] nears 700 ppm.

Tran Minh Canh - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

Canh Tran-minh - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Whole-cell biosensor for determination of volatile organic compounds in the form of aerosols.
    Analytica Chimica Acta, 1998
    Co-Authors: Martine Naessens, Canh Tran-minh
    Abstract:

    A biosensor using Chlorella microalgae immobilized on the membrane of an oxygen electrode has been designed to operate in the gas phase for determination of volatile organic compounds in the form of aerosols. Perchloroethylene (tetrachloroethylene) is used as an example to produce aerosols and vapours since it is toxic to the people working in dry-cleaning atmospheres and municipal treatment plants. A home-made controlled atmosphere chamber is constructed for perchloroethylene detection. Monitoring of perchloroethylene is achieved by the measurement of oxygen production during the algae Photosynthetic Process. The use of whole cells as bioreceptors allows the detection of a toxic aerosol in the gas phase without preliminary trapping of the analyte in solution.

Naessens Martine - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.