The Evolution and Evolvability of Photosystem II
Thomas Oliver1,2, Tom D Kim1, Joko P Trinugroho1,3
1Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom;
Annual Review of Plant Biology
|March 8, 2023
Summary
Photosystem II, the enzyme essential for photosynthesis, originated early in life's history. Its adaptable D1 subunit allows for evolution beyond water oxidation, paving the way for novel biocatalysts.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Evolutionary Biology
- Photosynthesis Research
Background:
- Photosystem II is the key enzyme responsible for water oxidation and oxygen production during photosynthesis.
- The evolutionary origins and timeline of Photosystem II have been historically challenging to determine.
- Understanding Photosystem II's evolution is crucial for deciphering early life and photosynthetic processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss recent advancements in understanding the origin and evolution of Photosystem II.
- To challenge existing paradigms regarding the evolution of photosynthesis and early life.
- To explore the potential of Photosystem II's evolutionary adaptability for future biocatalysis applications.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on Photosystem II evolution.
- Analysis of the evolutionary trajectory of water oxidation and Photosystem II.
- Examination of the role of the D1 subunit in Photosystem II's adaptability and function.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests water oxidation originated very early in life, predating major prokaryotic diversification.
- Photosystem II has remained remarkably conserved over billions of years.
- Continuous duplication of the D1 subunit has equipped Photosystem II with adaptability and novel functions.
Conclusions:
- The origin of water oxidation is ancient, requiring a reevaluation of photosynthetic evolution.
- Photosystem II's conserved structure coupled with D1 subunit dynamics drives its evolvability.
- Harnessing Photosystem II's adaptive capacity can lead to new light-powered enzymes for sustainable biocatalysis.
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