Scientists are optimistic about the possibility of meeting food security demands with their latest success in finding the structure of one of the key components of photosynthesis.

The study led by the University of Sheffield reveals the structure of cytochrome b6f — the protein complex that acts as catalyst in the plant growth via photosynthesis.

The team had used the high-resolution structural model for their study.

Dr Matt Johnson, a reader in Biochemistry at University of Sheffield who was also a supervisor of the study highlighted the achievement saying, “Cytochrome b6f is the beating heart of photosynthesis which plays a crucial role in regulating photosynthetic efficiency.”

With this success in hand, the researchers are optimistic about redesigning photosynthesis in crop plants to address the projected global population of 9-10 billion by 2050.

(Agencies)