Regulation of Photosynthesis: Redox Dynamics and Environmental Adaptations

Light-driven redox reactions are fundamental to plant metabolic pathways, particularly in the context of changing environmental conditions. These reactions are crucial for signal transduction, redox-mediated enzyme regulation, and the dynamics of protein complexes involved in light energy harvesting and photochemical conversion. Current research highlights the differential influence of light intensity and spectrum on redox systems within various plant cell compartments. Despite significant advancements, there remain gaps in our understanding of how these processes can be optimized to enhance photosynthetic efficiency. Addressing these gaps is essential for the rational redesign of photosynthesis, which is critical for meeting the global demand for food and energy sustainably.

This Research Topic aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying light-driven redox reactions in photosynthetic organisms. Specifically, it seeks to answer questions related to the regulation of photosynthesis at molecular, cellular, organismal, and ecological levels. The research will test hypotheses concerning the functional and structural dynamics of redox-active protein machinery and their adaptation to environmental changes. By exploring these areas, the research aims to provide insights that could lead to innovative strategies for improving photosynthetic efficiency.

To gather further insights into the boundaries of light-driven redox reactions in photosynthetic organisms, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• New genome editing technologies for reengineering photosynthetic organisms

• Exploration and exploitation of natural genetic and epigenetic diversity of redox-active protein machinery associated with environmental adaptations

• Functional characterization of genes involved in photosynthetic light-harvesting, photochemical conversion, and regeneration of photosynthetic protein complexes

• Structural characterization of thylakoid-associated proteins involved in the regulation and regeneration of protein complex dynamics under changing environmental conditions

• Bioinformatics and modeling approaches to elucidating the regulatory networks underlying diurnal light cycles in photosynthetic organisms

• Critical overviews of the past, present, and future of photosynthetic research

Keywords: redox reactions, plant metabolism, photosynthesis, bioenergetics

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.