Energy funnelling within multichromophore architectures monitored with subnanometre resolution

The funnelling of energy within multichromophoric assemblies is at the heart of the efficient conversion of solar energy by plants. The detailed mechanisms of this process are still actively debated as they rely on complex interactions between a large number of chromophores and their environment. Here we used luminescence induced by scanning tunnelling microscopy to probe model multichromophoric structures assembled on a surface. Mimicking strategies developed by photosynthetic systems, individual molecules were used as ancillary, passive or blocking elements to promote and direct resonant energy transfer between distant donor and acceptor units. As it relies on organic chromophores as the elementary components, this approach constitutes a powerful model to address fundamental physical processes at play in natural light-harvesting complexes.

Automated summary

The funneling of energy within multichromophoric assemblies is essential for efficient solar energy conversion in plants. By using luminescence induced by scanning tunneling microscopy, researchers were able to probe model multichromophoric structures on a surface and mimic strategies developed by photosynthetic systems. This approach, based on organic chromophores, provides a powerful model to study fundamental physical processes in natural light-harvesting complexes.