Diatoms' Unique Proteins Could Revolutionize Solar Energy Harvesting.
Diatoms have special proteins called Fucoxanthin-chlorophyll proteins (FCPs) that help them absorb light for photosynthesis. These FCPs come in three types, each with a different role in capturing and protecting light energy. The pigments in FCPs are different from those in plants, with unique combinations of chlorophyll and fucoxanthin. The way these pigments are arranged allows for efficient transfer of energy from one to another. FCPs form trimeric and oligomeric complexes, with specific arrangements of pigments around them. The different colored fucoxanthins in FCPs are located in specific regions, similar to how other pigments are arranged in plant proteins. This study provides insights into how diatoms use FCPs to harness light energy for photosynthesis.