Research Progress in Improving Photosynthetic Efficiency

Photosynthesis is the largest mass- and energy-conversion process on Earth, and it is the material basis for almost all biological activities. The efficiency of converting absorbed light energy into energy substances during photosynthesis is very low compared to theoretical values. Based on the importance of photosynthesis, this article summarizes the latest progress in improving photosynthesis efficiency from various perspectives. The main way to improve photosynthetic efficiency is to optimize the light reactions, including increasing light absorption and conversion, accelerating the recovery of non-photochemical quenching, modifying enzymes in the Calvin cycle, introducing carbon concentration mechanisms into C-3 plants, rebuilding the photorespiration pathway, de novo synthesis, and changing stomatal conductance. These developments indicate that there is significant room for improvement in photosynthesis, providing support for improving crop yields and mitigating changes in climate conditions.

Automated summary

Photosynthesis is the largest process for converting energy on Earth and serves as the foundation for all biological activities. Optimizing light reactions is the main approach to improve photosynthetic efficiency, including increasing light absorption and conversion, enhancing non-photochemical quenching recovery, modifying enzymes in the Calvin cycle, introducing carbon concentration mechanisms in C-3 plants, rebuilding the photorespiration pathway, de novo synthesis, and altering stomatal conductance.