Fotobioquímica

Fotobioquímica is the study of photochemical reactions that occur in biological systems. It bridges the fields of photochemistry and biochemistry, focusing on how light energy is absorbed, transferred, and utilized by living organisms to drive biochemical processes. This includes a wide range of phenomena, from photosynthesis in plants and microorganisms to vision in animals and the photoprotective mechanisms employed by various life forms.

A central aspect of fotobioquímica is the role of photoreceptor molecules. These are chromophores, often proteins, that can absorb light energy and undergo a conformational change or initiate a chemical reaction. Examples include chlorophylls and carotenoids in photosynthesis, rhodopsins in vision, and flavins in photolyases. The absorbed light energy can be converted into chemical energy, used to trigger signaling pathways, or dissipate as heat to prevent cellular damage.

Fotobioquímica has significant implications for understanding fundamental life processes. Photosynthesis, the most prominent example, converts light energy into chemical energy stored in organic molecules, forming the base of most food webs on Earth. Beyond photosynthesis, fotobioquímica is crucial for understanding how organisms sense light, regulate circadian rhythms, and repair DNA damage caused by UV radiation. Research in this area contributes to advancements in renewable energy technologies, photodynamic therapy for cancer treatment, and the development of novel bio-inspired materials.