Optimal Energy Transfer in Light-Harvesting Systems.

ABSTRACT: Photosynthesis is one of the most essential biological processes in which specialized pigment-protein complexes absorb solar photons, and with a remarkably high efficiency, guide the photo-induced excitation energy toward the reaction center to subsequently trigger its conversion to chemical energy. In this work, we review the principles of optimal energy transfer in various natural and artificial light harvesting systems. We begin by presenting the guiding principles for optimizing the energy transfer efficiency in systems connected to dissipative environments, with particular attention paid to the potential role of quantum coherence in light harvesting systems. We will comment briefly on photo-protective mechanisms in natural systems that ensure optimal functionality under varying ambien

SUBMITTER: Chen L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6332264 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature