Dynamics of light harvesting in photosynthesis

Annu Rev Phys Chem. 2009:60:241-62. doi: 10.1146/annurev.physchem.040808.090259.

Abstract

We review recent theoretical and experimental advances in the elucidation of the dynamics of light harvesting in photosynthesis, focusing on recent theoretical developments in structure-based modeling of electronic excitations in photosynthetic complexes and critically examining theoretical models for excitation energy transfer. We then briefly describe two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy and its application to the study of photosynthetic complexes, in particular the Fenna-Matthews-Olson complex from green sulfur bacteria. This review emphasizes recent experimental observations of long-lasting quantum coherence in photosynthetic systems and the implications of quantum coherence in natural photosynthesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bacterial Proteins / chemistry
  • Electrons
  • Light*
  • Models, Biological
  • Photosynthesis / radiation effects*
  • Spectrophotometry

Substances

  • Bacterial Proteins