helisynthesis

Helisynthesis is a hypothetical biological process describing the theoretical ability of organisms to synthesize their own food using electromagnetic radiation, specifically from the visible light spectrum, as an energy source. This concept is distinct from photosynthesis, which utilizes chemical reactions driven by light energy. In helisynthesis, it is proposed that organisms might directly convert photons into usable chemical energy without the intermediary complex biochemical pathways found in photosynthesis.

The term "helisynthesis" itself is a portmanteau, combining "helios," the Greek word for sun, and "synthesis," meaning to create or form. Proponents of the concept suggest that such a mechanism could be more efficient than photosynthesis, potentially allowing for life in environments where sunlight is abundant but traditional photosynthetic components are scarce or absent.

While helisynthesis remains a theoretical construct within speculative biology and astrobiology, it serves as a thought experiment for considering alternative metabolic strategies for extraterrestrial life. Currently, there is no known biological organism on Earth or any observed extraterrestrial organism that demonstrates helisynthesis. All known light-dependent energy production in living systems on Earth is based on photosynthesis or related photochemical processes. The scientific community generally regards helisynthesis as a speculative idea rather than an established biological phenomenon.