The Diversity of Photosynthetic Cytochromes

Abstract

This chapter explores the myriad of cytochromes involved in the photosynthetic process that generates the most energy and oxygen on Earth. All photosynthetic organisms rely on cytochromes to move electrons around the cell and drive the photosynthetic mechanism. Although cytochromes have many jobs in many environments, only a few types of cytochromes are involved in these electron transport chains. The hemes vary in axial ligation to meet the needs and reduction potential of each specific role. Some cytochromes diverge from the typical alpha helical structure, such as cytochrome f with beta sheet secondary structure. Whether in membranes or in the cytoplasm, diverse cytochromes keep photosynthesis pumping in many ecosystems.