Secondary fluorescence kinetics of spinach leaves in relation to the onset of photosynthetic carbon assimilation

Respiration Interacts With Photosynthesis Through the Acceptor Side of Photosystem I, Reflected in the Dark-to-Light Induction Kinetics of Chlorophyll Fluorescence in the Cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803

In cyanobacteria, the photosynthetic prokaryotes, direct interaction between photosynthesis and respiration exists at plastoquinone (PQ) pool, which is shared by the two electron transport chains. Another possible point of intersection of the two electron transport chains is NADPH, which is the major electron donor to the respiratory chain as well as the final product of the photosynthetic chain. Here, we showed that the redox state of NADPH in the dark affected chlorophyll fluorescence induction in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 in a quantitative manner. Accumulation of the reduced NADPH in the dark due to the defect in type 1 NAD(P)H dehydrogenase complex in the respiratory chain resulted in the faster rise to the peak in the dark-to-light induction of chlorophyll fluorescence, while depletion of NADPH due to the defect in pentose phosphate pathway resulted in the delayed appearance of the initial peak in the induction kinetics. There was a strong correlation between the dark level of NADPH determined by its fluorescence and the peak position of the induction kinetics of chlorophyll fluorescence. These results indicate that photosynthesis interacts with respiration through NADPH, which enable us to monitor the redox condition of the acceptor side of photosystem I by simple measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence induction in cyanobacteria.

Electron transport in Tradescantia leaves acclimated to high and low light: thermoluminescence, PAM-fluorometry, and EPR studies

Using thermoluminescence, PAM-fluorometry, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) for assaying electron transport processes in chloroplasts in situ, we have compared photosynthetic characteristics in Tradescantia fluminensis leaves grown under low light (LL, 50-125 µmol photons m^-2 s^-1) or high light (HL, 875-1000 µmol photons m^-2 s^-1) condition. We found differences in the thermoluminescence (TL) spectra of LL- and HL-acclimated leaves. The LL and HL leaves show different proportions of the Q (~ 0 °C) and B (~ 25-30 °C) bands in their TL spectra; the ratios of the "light sums" of the Q and B bands being S_Q/S_B ≈ 1/1 (LL) and S_Q/S_B ≈ 1/3 (HL). This suggests the existence of different redox states of electron carriers on the acceptor side of PSII in LL and HL leaves, which may be affected, in particular, by different capacities of their photo-reducible PQ pools. Enhanced content of PQ in chloroplasts of LL leaves may be the reason for an efficient performance of photosynthesis at low irradiance. Kinetic studies of slow induction of Chl a fluorescence and measurements of P₇₀₀ photooxidation by EPR demonstrate that HL leaves have faster (about 2 times) response to switching on actinic light as compared to LL leaves grown at moderate irradiation. HL leaves also show higher non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) of Chl a fluorescence. These properties of HL leaves (faster response to light and generation of enhanced NPQ) reflect the flexibility of their photosynthetic apparatus, providing sustainability and rapid response to fluctuations of environmental light intensity and solar stress resistance. Analysis of time-courses of the EPR signals of [Formula: see text] induced by far-red (λ_max = 707 nm), exciting predominantly PSI, and white light, exciting both PSI and PSII, suggests that there is a contribution of cyclic electron flow around PSI to electron flow through PSI in HL leaves. The data obtained are discussed in terms of photosynthetic apparatus sustainability of HL and LL leaves under variable irradiation conditions.

Low temperature induced modulation of photosynthetic induction in non-acclimated and cold-acclimated Arabidopsis thaliana: chlorophyll a fluorescence and gas-exchange measurements

Cold acclimation modifies the photosynthetic machinery and enables plants to survive at sub-zero temperatures, whereas in warm habitats, many species suffer even at non-freezing temperatures. We have measured chlorophyll a fluorescence (ChlF) and CO₂ assimilation to investigate the effects of cold acclimation, and of low temperatures, on a cold-sensitive Arabidopsis thaliana accession C24. Upon excitation with low intensity (40 µmol photons m^- 2 s^- 1) ~ 620 nm light, slow (minute range) ChlF transients, at ~ 22 °C, showed two waves in the SMT phase (S, semi steady-state; M, maximum; T, terminal steady-state), whereas CO₂ assimilation showed a linear increase with time. Low-temperature treatment (down to - 1.5 °C) strongly modulated the SMT phase and stimulated a peak in the CO₂ assimilation induction curve. We show that the SMT phase, at ~ 22 °C, was abolished when measured under high actinic irradiance, or when 3-(3, 4-dichlorophenyl)-1, 1- dimethylurea (DCMU, an inhibitor of electron flow) or methyl viologen (MV, a Photosystem I (PSI) electron acceptor) was added to the system. Our data suggest that stimulation of the SMT wave, at low temperatures, has multiple reasons, which may include changes in both photochemical and biochemical reactions leading to modulations in non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) of the excited state of Chl, "state transitions," as well as changes in the rate of cyclic electron flow through PSI. Further, we suggest that cold acclimation, in accession C24, promotes "state transition" and protects photosystems by preventing high excitation pressure during low-temperature exposure.

Relative functional and optical absorption cross-sections of PSII and other photosynthetic parameters monitored in situ, at a distance with a time resolution of a few seconds, using a prototype light induced fluorescence transient (LIFT) device

The prototype light-induced fluorescence transient (LIFT) instrument provides continuous, minimally intrusive, high time resolution (~2s) assessment of photosynthetic performance in terrestrial plants from up to 2m. It induces a chlorophyll fluorescence transient by a series of short flashes in a saturation sequence (180 ~1μs flashlets in <380μs) to achieve near-full reduction of the primary acceptor QA, followed by a relaxation sequence (RQA; 90 flashlets at exponentially increasing intervals over ~30ms) to observe kinetics of QA re-oxidation. When fitted by the fast repetition rate (FRR) model (Kolber et al. 1998) the QA flash of LIFT/FRR gives smaller values for FmQA from dark adapted leaves than FmPAM from pulse amplitude modulated (PAM) assays. The ratio FmQA/FmPAM resembles the ratio of fluorescence yield at the J/P phases of the classical O-J-I-P transient and we conclude that the difference simply is due to the levels of PQ pool reduction induced by the two techniques. In a strong PAM-analogous WL pulse in the dark monitored by the QA flash of LIFT/FRR φPSIIWL ≈ φPSIIPAM. The QA flash also tracks PQ pool reduction as well as the associated responses of ETR QA → PQ and PQ → PSI, the relative functional (σPSII) and optical absorption (aPSII) cross-sections of PSII in situ with a time resolution of ~2s as they relax after the pulse. It is impractical to deliver strong WL pulses at a distance in the field but a longer PQ flash from LIFT/FRR also achieves full reduction of PQ pool and delivers φPSIIPQ ≈ φPSIIPAM to obtain PAM-equivalent estimates of ETR and NPQ at a distance. In situ values of σPSII and aPSII from the QA flash with smaller antenna barley (chlorina-f2) and Arabidopsis mutants (asLhcb2-12, ch1-3 Lhcb5) are proportionally similar to those previously reported from in vitro assays. These direct measurements are further validated by changes in antenna size in response to growth irradiance. We illustrate how the QA flash facilitates our understanding of photosynthetic regulation during sun flecks in natural environments at a distance, with a time resolution of a few seconds.

Our eclectic adventures in the slower eras of photosynthesis: from New England Down Under to biosphere 2 and beyond

This is a tale of a career in plant physiological ecology that enjoyed the freedom to address photosynthetic physiology and biochemistry in leaves of plants from diverse environments. It was supported by block funding (now sadly a thing of the past) for research at the Australian National University, by grants during appointments in the United States and in Germany, and by Columbia University. It became a "career experiment" in which long-term, high-trust support for curiosity-driven plant biology in Australia, and at times in the United States, led to surprisingly innovative results. Although the rich diversity of short-term competitive grant opportunities in the United States sustained ongoing research, it proved difficult to mobilize support for more risky long-term projects. A decade after the closure of the Biosphere 2 Laboratory, this article highlights the achievements of colleagues in experimental climate change research from 1998 to 2003.

Experimental in vivo measurements of light emission in plants: a perspective dedicated to David Walker

This review is dedicated to David Walker (1928-2012), a pioneer in the field of photosynthesis and chlorophyll fluorescence. We begin this review by presenting the history of light emission studies, from the ancient times. Light emission from plants is of several kinds: prompt fluorescence (PF), delayed fluorescence (DF), thermoluminescence, and phosphorescence. In this article, we focus on PF and DF. Chlorophyll a fluorescence measurements have been used for more than 80 years to study photosynthesis, particularly photosystem II (PSII) since 1961. This technique has become a regular trusted probe in agricultural and biological research. Many measured and calculated parameters are good biomarkers or indicators of plant tolerance to different abiotic and biotic stressors. This would never have been possible without the rapid development of new fluorometers. To date, most of these instruments are based mainly on two different operational principles for measuring variable chlorophyll a fluorescence: (1) a PF signal produced following a pulse-amplitude-modulated excitation and (2) a PF signal emitted during a strong continuous actinic excitation. In addition to fluorometers, other instruments have been developed to measure additional signals, such as DF, originating from PSII, and light-induced absorbance changes due to the photooxidation of P700, from PSI, measured as the absorption decrease (photobleaching) at about 705 nm, or increase at 820 nm. In this review, the technical and theoretical basis of newly developed instruments, allowing for simultaneous measurement of the PF and the DF as well as other parameters is discussed. Special emphasis has been given to a description of comparative measurements on PF and DF. However, DF has been discussed in greater details, since it is much less used and less known than PF, but has a great potential to provide useful qualitative new information on the back reactions of PSII electron transfer. A review concerning the history of fluorometers is also presented.

David Alan Walker (1928-2012)

David Alan Walker, Emeritus Professor of Biology, University of Sheffield, UK and Fellow of the Royal Society, died on February 13, 2012. David had a marvelous 60 year career as a scientist, during which he was a researcher, mentor, valued colleague, and a prolific writer in the field of photosynthesis. His career was marked by creative breakthroughs in isolation and analysis of chloroplast metabolism in vitro and simple but valuable technical advances for measurement of photosynthesis in vivo that remain relevant on a global scale to production of crops and biofuels, as well as plant responses to climate change. We include here personal remembrances by the authors (GEE and UH), and by (in alphabetical order): Zoran Cerovic (France), Bob Furbank (Australia), Geoffrey Hind (USA), John Humby (UK), Agu Laisk (Estonia), Peter Lea (UK), Ross Lilley (Australia), Barry Osmond (Australia), Simon Robinson (Australia) and Charles Stirling (UK).

Fluorescence kinetic parameters and cyclic electron transport in guard cell chloroplasts of chlorophyll-deficient leaf tissues from variegated weeping fig (Ficus benjamina L.)

Residual chlorophyll in chlorophyll-deficient (albino) areas of variegated leaves of Ficus benjamina originates from guard cell chloroplasts. Photosynthetic features of green and albino sectors of F. benjamina were studied by imaging the distribution of the fluorescence decrease ratio Rfd within a leaf calculated from maximum (Fm) and steady-state leaf chlorophyll fluorescence (Fs) at 690 and 740 nm. Local areas of albino sectors demonstrated an abnormally high Rfd(740)/Rfd(690) ratio. Fluorescence transients excited in albino sectors at red (640 and 690 nm) wavelengths showed an abrupt decrease of the Rfd values (0.4 and 0.1, correspondingly) as compared with those excited at blue wavelengths (1.7-2.4). This "Red Drop" was not observed for green sectors. Normal and chlorophyll-deficient leaf sectors of F. benjamina were also tested for linear and cyclic electron transport in thylakoids. The tests have been performed studying fluorescence at a steady-state phase with CO(2)-excess impulse feeding, photoacoustic signal generated by pulse light source at wavelengths selectively exciting PSI, fluorescence kinetics under anaerobiosis and fluorescence changes observed by dual-wavelength excitation method. The data obtained for albino sectors strongly suggest the possibility of a cyclic electron transport simultaneously occurring in guard cell thylakoids around photosystems I and II under blue light, whereas linear electron transport is absent or insufficient.

Photosystem II fluorescence lifetime imaging in avocado leaves: contributions of the lutein-epoxide and violaxanthin cycles to fluorescence quenching

Lifetime-resolved imaging measurements of chlorophyll a fluorescence were made on leaves of avocado plants to study whether rapidly reversible ΔpH-dependent (transthylakoid H(+) concentration gradient) thermal energy dissipation (qE) and slowly reversible ΔpH-independent fluorescence quenching (qI) are modulated by lutein-epoxide and violaxanthin cycles operating in parallel. Under normal conditions (without inhibitors), analysis of the chlorophyll a fluorescence lifetime data revealed two major lifetime pools (1.5 and 0.5 ns) for photosystem II during the ΔpH build-up under illumination. Formation of the 0.5-ns pool upon illumination was correlated with dark-retention of antheraxanthin and photo-converted lutein in leaves. Interconversion between the 1.5- and 0.5-ns lifetime pools took place during the slow part of the chlorophyll a fluorescence transient: first from 1.5 ns to 0.5 ns in the P-to-S phase, then back from 0.5 ns to 1.5 ns in the S-to-M phase. When linear electron transport and the resulting ΔpH build-up were inhibited by treatment with 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea (DCMU), the major fluorescence intensity was due to a 2.2-ns lifetime pool with a minor faster contribution of approximately 0.7 ns. In the presence of DCMU, neither the intensity nor the lifetimes of fluorescence were affected by antheraxanthin and photo-converted lutein. Thus, we conclude that both antheraxanthin and photo-converted lutein are able to enhance ΔpH-dependent qE processes that are associated with the 0.5-ns lifetime pool. However, unlike zeaxanthin, retention of antheraxanthin and photo-converted lutein may not by itself stabilize quenching or cause qI.

The fast and slow kinetics of chlorophyll a fluorescence induction in plants, algae and cyanobacteria: a viewpoint

The light-induced/dark-reversible changes in the chlorophyll (Chl) a fluorescence of photosynthetic cells and membranes in the mus-to-several min time window (fluorescence induction, FI; or Kautsky transient) reflect quantum yield changes (quenching/de-quenching) as well as changes in the number of Chls a in photosystem II (PS II; state transitions). Both relate to excitation trapping in PS II and the ensuing photosynthetic electron transport (PSET), and to secondary PSET effects, such as ion translocation across thylakoid membranes and filling or depletion of post-PS II and post-PS I pools of metabolites. In addition, high actinic light doses may depress Chl a fluorescence irreversibly (photoinhibitory lowering; q(I)). FI has been studied quite extensively in plants an algae (less so in cyanobacteria) as it affords a low resolution panoramic view of the photosynthesis process. Total FI comprises two transients, a fast initial (OPS; for Origin, Peak, Steady state) and a second slower transient (SMT; for Steady state, Maximum, Terminal state), whose details are characteristically different in eukaryotic (plants and algae) and prokaryotic (cyanobacteria) oxygenic photosynthetic organisms. In the former, maximal fluorescence output occurs at peak P, with peak M lying much lower or being absent, in which case the PSMT phases are replaced by a monotonous PT fluorescence decay. In contrast, in phycobilisome (PBS)-containing cyanobacteria maximal fluorescence occurs at M which lies much higher than peak P. It will be argued that this difference is caused by a fluorescence lowering trend (state 1 --> 2 transition) that dominates the FI pattern of plants and algae, and correspondingly by a fluorescence increasing trend (state 2 --> 1 transition) that dominates the FI of PBS-containing cyanobacteria. Characteristically, however, the FI pattern of the PBS-minus cyanobacterium Acaryochloris marina resembles the FI patterns of algae and plants and not of the PBS-containing cyanobacteria.

Novel mannose-sequestration technique reveals variation in subcellular orthophosphate pools do not explain the effects of phosphorus nutrition on photosynthesis in Eucalyptus globulus seedlings

Although only a small proportion of plant phosphorus (P) is used for photosynthesis, the relationships between P and photosynthesis can be strong. It was hypothesized, in this study, that variation in the allocation of orthophosphate (Pi) between active (cytoplasmic) and nonactive (vacuolar) pools would underpin differences in rates of photosynthesis in 4-month-old Eucalyptus globulus seedlings grown with a varying P supply. Photosynthetic biochemistry was assessed by the response of net photosynthesis to increasing intercellular [CO2]. Cytoplasmic Pi was sequestered as mannose 6-phosphate. Total P and the proportion of P as Pi were positively related to P supply. The ratios of active : stored Pi (10-24%) varied little over the range of treatments. Active Pi was positively related to P supply, as was photosynthesis (7 micromol CO2 m(-2) s(-1) with 0 mM P vs. 16 micromol CO2 m(-2) s(-1) with 0.32 mM P). Positive relationships between P supply and photosynthesis were explained best by leaf P content, not by active pools of Pi. The distribution of Pi between the vacuole and the cytoplasm had little impact on the photosynthetic phosphorus-use efficiency (PPUE), and reductions in cytoplasmic Pi had little effect on photosynthesis. Hence, PPUE is an unsuitable guide for assessing plant responses to increasingly unavailable P in the environment.

Chlorophyll a fluorescence rise induced by high light illumination of dark-adapted plant tissue studied by means of a model of photosystem II and considering photosystem II heterogeneity

Chlorophyll a fluorescence rise (FLR) measured in vivo in dark-adapted plant tissue immediately after the onset of high light continuous illumination shows complex O-K-J-I-P transient. The steps typically appear at about 400 micros (K), 2 ms (J), 30 ms (I), and 200 - 500 ms (P) and a transient decrease of fluorescence to local minima (dips D) can be observed after the K, J, and I steps. As the FLR reflects a function of photosystem II (PSII) and to more understand the FLR, a PSII reactions model was formulated comprising equilibrium of excited states among all light harvesting and reaction centre pigments and P680, reversible radical pair formation and the donor and acceptor side functions. Such a formulated model is the most detailed and complex model of PSII reactions used so far for simulations of the FLR. By varying of selected model parameters (rate constants and initial conditions) several conclusions can be made as for the origin of and changes in shape of the theoretical FLR and compare them with in-literature-reported results. For homogeneous population of PSII and using standard in-literature-reported values of the model parameters, the simulated FLR is characterized by reaching the minimal fluorescence F(0) at about 3 ns after the illumination is switched on lasting to about 1 micros, followed by fluorescence rise to a plateau located at about 2 ms and subsequent fluorescence rise to a global maximum that is reached at about 60 ms. Varying of the values of rate constants of fast processes that can compete for utilization of the excited states with fluorescence emission does not change qualitatively the shape of the FLR. However, primary photochemistry of PSII (the charge separation, recombination and stabilization), non-radiative loss of excited states in light harvesting antennae and excited states quenching by oxidized plastoquisnone (PQ) molecules from the PQ pool seem to be the main factors controlling the maximum quantum yield of PSII photochemistry as expressed by the F(V)/F(M) ratio. The appearance of the plateau at about 2 ms in the FLR is affected by several factors: the height of the plateau in the FLR increases when the fluorescence quenching by oxidized P680(+) is not considered in the simulations or when the electron transfer from Q(A)(-) to Q(B)((-)) is slowed down whereas the height of the plateau decreases and its position is shifted to shorter times when OEC is initially in higher S state. The plateau at about 2 ms is changed into the local fluorescence maximum followed by a dip when the fluorescence quenching by oxidized PQ molecules or the charge recombination between P680(+) and Q(A)(-) is not considered in the simulations or when all OEC is initially in the S(0) state or when the S -state transitions of OEC are slowed down. Slowing down of the S -state transitions of OEC as well as of the electron transfer from Q(A)(-) to Q(B)((-)) also causes a decrease of maximal fluorescence level. In the case of full inhibition of the S -state transitions of OEC as well as in the case of full inhibition of the electron donation to P680(+) by Y(Z), the local fluorescence maximum becomes the global fluorescence maximum. Assuming homogeneous PSII population, theoretical FLR curve that only far resembles experimentally measured O-J-I-P transient at room temperature can be simulated when slowly reducing PQ pool is considered. Assuming heterogeneous PSII population (i.e. the alpha/beta and the Q(B) -reducing/Q(B)-non-reducing heterogeneity and heterogeneity in size of the PQ pool and rate of its reduction) enables to simulate the FLR with two steps between minimal and maximal fluorescence whose relative heights are in agreement with the experiments but not their time positions. A cause of this discrepancy is discussed as well as different approaches to the definition of fluorescence signal during the FLR.

Studies on the induction of chlorophyll fluorescence in barley protoplasts. II. Resolution of fluorescence quenching by redox state and the transthylakoid pH gradient

During the chlorophyll fluorescence oscillation described in barley protoplasts (Quick & Horton, Proc. R. Soc. Lond . B 220, 361-370, 1984) the components which contribute to quenching have been quantified. Quenching due to oxidized Q ( q Q ) was measured either by DCMU addition or by light doubling and indicated an oscillation in the redox state of Q which was antiparallel to the rate of oxygen evolution but was approximately 15 s out of phase at a variety of light intensities and temperatures. An oscillation in the extent of energy-dependent quenching, q e , was observed in strong but not weak light. These results are discussed in terms of the mechanism of the changes in energy and redox states that can contribute additively but in differing proportions to the fluorescence oscillation.

Relations between electron transport and carbon assimilation; simultaneous measurement of chlorophyll fluorescence, transthylakoid pH gradient and O 2 evolution in isolated chloroplasts

An apparatus is described that allows simultaneous measurement of photosynthetic O 2 evolution, chlorophyll fluorescence and the trans­thylakoid pH gradient (∆pH) in isolated chloroplasts irradiated with light sufficient to saturate photosynthesis. In intact chloroplasts, quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence due to both oxidation of the primary electron acceptor of photosystem II (Q) and formation of ∆pH was seen. The relative proportions of the two kinds of quenching varied in response to ( a ) the light intensity, ( b ) the presence of phosphoglycerate and ( c ) whether or not the chloroplasts were in the induction period or in a period of linear photosynthetic O 2 evolution. In broken chloroplasts reconstituted for CO 2 fixation, transient changes in the rates of O 2 evolution, ∆pH, the redox state of Q and chlorophyll fluorescence were observed as a result of changes in ( a ) the availability of electron acceptor as determined by the additions of NADP and phosphoglycerate and ( b ) the ratio of ATP to ADP, as manipulated by addition of ribose 5-phosphate. The changes in chlorophyll fluorescence in this system could be manipulated to show a pattern very similar to that observed in leaves.

Regulation of photosystem II by metabolic and environmental factors

The thylakoid membranes of higher plants possess several mechanisms that control both the distribution and rate of dissipation of absorbed light. These mechanisms, which allow regulation of photosynthetic electron transport in response to alteration in external and internal factors, can be observed as the various processes that quench chlorophyll fluorescence. By using the 'light-doubling techniques’, together with analysis of quenching relaxation, it is possible to assess quantitatively the extents of these regulatory processes and to allow their interrelations to be studied. These techniques can be applied to in vitro systems or to leaves, and can be particularly useful when applied with electron-transport measurements and when models are used to aid interpretation. Results of quenching analysis at different light intensities in isolated thylakoids, intact chloroplasts, protoplasts, algae and leaves of a variety of species are presented.

Some effects of changes in gas phase on the steady-state chlorophyll a fluorescence exhibited by illuminated leaves

Excursions in chlorophyll fluorescence were obtained under continuous illumination by changing the composition of the atmosphere surrounding pieces of spinach leaf. Removal of CO 2 caused a transient rise and a subsequent fall to a new quasi-steady-state level. This response could be interrupted at any time by readmission of air, and similar but smaller excursions could be initiated by decreasing the CO 2 concentration. The effect was then proportional to the decrease in CO 2 whereas the steady-state value was related to the final CO 2 concentration. The excursions promoted by the decrease in CO 2 concentration were enhanced if O 2 was simultaneously decreased from 20 to 2%. Responses to changes in O 2 concentration in the absence of CO 2 , to increases in CO 2 concentration alone, and to pulses of CO 2 and O 2 in a N 2 atmosphere, are also described. The results are discussed in relation to changes in NADPH and ATP brought about by photosynthetic carbon assimilation and its regulatory mechanisms.

Studies on the induction of chlorophyll fluorescence in barley protoplasts. I. Factors affecting the observation of oscillations in the yield of chlorophyll fluorescence and the rate of oxygen evolution

Chlorophyll fluorescence and oxygen evolution have been measured in suspensions of protoplasts isolated from barley leaves. Like the parent tissue, the protoplasts exhibit transients in both fluorescence and the rate of oxygen evolution upon illumination and before a steady state rate of photosynthesis is reached. The two signals are anti-parallel and slightly phase shifted with fluorescence changes preceeding alteration in the rate of oxygen evolution by 10-15 s. Fast ( t ≈ 15 s) and a slow ( t ≈ 2 min) fluorescence peaks were observed, the latter strongly resembling the oscillations described in leaves (Walker, Horton, Sivak & Quick, Photobiochem . Photobiophys . 5, 35 (1983)). The amplitude of the oscillation was most pronounced in strong light, and at high (more than 8.0) pH whereas the period was temperature dependent. Antimycin A was found to suppress the slow oscillation but to exaggerate the fast transient, whereas low ( < 0.1 μM) DCMU had the reverse effect. These results are discussed in terms of a proposed mechanism to account for these transients and it is suggested that cyclic electron flow may have an important role.

Some effects of CO 2 concentration and decreased O 2 concentration on induction fluorescence in leaves

A procedure is described that permits spinach leaves to display secondary fluorescence kinetics when illuminated in air at 20 °C. The initial peak in chlorophyll a fluorescence is then followed by a fall to a quasi-steady state (S), a rise to a new peak (M) and a final fall to a terminal steady-state value (T). These kinetics can be modified by changing the periods of light and darkness before measurement. The M peak is abolished by exposure to CO 2 -free air and greatly modified by exposure to 5 % CO 2 . In 2% O 2 the period of darkness immediately before illumination needs to be lengthened if secondary kinetics are to be observed. The results are discussed in relation to the probable impact of photosynthetic carbon assimilation on fluorescence-quenching mechanisms.

Slow secondary fluorescence kinetics associated with the onset of photosynthetic carbon assimilation in intact isolated chloroplasts

Experiments with carefully isolated, largely intact chloroplasts, capable of fast rates of CO 2 -dependent O 2 evolution, show that the fall in chlorophyll a fluorescence (from the early maxima reached immediately after illumination) is interrupted by a ‘shoulder’ which is associated with the exponential increase in the rate of O 2 evolution. The length of this induction period was increased by storage, by decreased temperature, by increased orthophosphate concentration in the assay medium or by the presence of D, L-glyceraldehyde. It could also be shortened by the addition of 3-phosphoglycerate or dihydroxyacetonephosphate. In each treatment the shoulder in fluorescence shifted so that the association with the period of exponential increase was maintained. When illumination was re-started after a short dark interval, induction was minimal and no shoulder could be discerned, but both the lag in the onset of O 2 evolution and the shoulder were restored when the chloroplasts were resuspended in fresh assay medium during the period of darkness. The relation between chlorophyll a fluorescence and the onset of photosynthetic carbon assimilation is discussed.

Effect of methyl viologen on slow secondary fluorescence kinetics associated with photosynthetic carbon assimilation in intact isolated chloroplasts

Methyl viologen in catalytic amounts induces pronounced secondary kinetics in fluorescence in intact isolated chloroplasts performing photosynthetic carbon assimilation. These transient increases in fluorescence and oscillations were associated with the induction phase of O 2 evolution in a similar manner to the transient ‘shoulder’ detected previously (Z. G. Cerović, M. N. Sivak and D. A. Walker, Proc . R . Soc . Lond . B 220, 327–338 (1984)). Experiments with the addition of antimycin A and gramicidin D demonstrated that methyl viologen induced an increased ATP production linked to pseudocyclic electron transport. The adjustment of ATP and NADPH production to meet the requirements of the reductive pentose phosphate pathway during induction is thought to be the cause of the detected transients and oscillations in fluorescence.

Fluorescence induction curves registered from individual microalgae cenobiums in the process of population growth

Registration of chlorophyll fluorescence induction curves (IC) from individual microalgae cenobiums was performed during Scenedesmus quadricauda culture growth. Emphasis was placed on the analysis of patterns of the slow phase of IC, since these slow fluorescence transitions reflect complex interactions between primary and secondary photosynthetic processes. A classification was performed of the ICs obtained according to the patterns of their slow phase. Four different types of such patterns were distinguished. The microalgae population structure with respect to IC patterns was investigated at different stages of culture growth. The distribution of microalgae cenobiums over the patterns of IC was found to change in accordance with the stage of population development. At the stage of the population growth enhancement, nonmonotonous IC dominated with a high steady-state level of fluorescence. The stage of linear growth was characterized by IC with monotonous decay kinetics and low steady-state level of fluorescence. At the third stage including the phases of growth inhibition, stationary state and the beginning of cell death the population structure was the most heterogeneous, with all IC patterns observed.

Effects of fluoride on chlorophyll a fluorescence in spinach

Chlorophyll a (chl a) fluorescence was used to determine the effects of treatments with gaseous HF or aqueous solutions of NaF on the photosynthetic apparatus of spinach prior to the appearance of visible injury. Placing the petioles in 2 mM NaF for 3 h resulted in the accumulation of 240 ppm F in leaf blades. The second oldest leaves of spinach plants accumulated similar concentrations (270 ppm F) when the plants were exposed to gaseous HF at 5 microg F m(-3) for 6 days. These NaF and HF treatments did not result in visible injury nor did they affect Fo, Fm or Fv/Fm. However, during the slow (>2 s) induction kinetics, fluorescence quenching in fluoride-treated leaves increased during the P to S phase and the M peak was no longer resolved. This was due, in part, to increased photochemical quenching. The results are consistent with a reduced ability to develop or maintain a trans-thylakoid proton gradient in chloroplasts containing elevated concentrations of F.

Functional aspects of secondary carotenoids in Haematococcus lacustris (Girod) Rostafinski (Volvocales): I. The accumulation period as an active metabolic process

Alterations of photosynthetic activity were investigated during accumulation of secondary carotenoids in Haematococcus lacustris (Girod) Rostafinski. Using several methods regarding (i) pigment pattern and pigment content (cytophotometry, computer-aided microscopic image analysis, in vivo absorption spectroscopy, high-performance liquid chromatrography) and (ii) photosynthesis (microfluorometry, modulated chlorophyll fluorescence and luminescence detection, O₂ evolution and consumption measurement, 77 K fluorescence spectroscopy) we examined single cells and cell suspensions of the green alga. The results indicate decrease of both the photosystem II activity and the linear electron transport accompanying synthesis of secondary carotenoids. On the other hand, activation of those processes leading to an increased transthylakoid proton gradient could be established during early accumulation period. This is assumed to be an active adaptation of the photosynthetic apparatus to energetic requirements given by secondary carotenoid biosynthesis in H. lacustris.

Tansley Review No. 36 Excited leaves

Photosynthesis is largely to do with energy transduction; the conversion of light energy into electrical energy into chemical energy. Precisely how much light energy is needed to bring about the reduction of one molecule of carbon dioxide and the release of one molecule of oxygen (the quantum requirement) is a matter of fundamental importance and one which has attracted much past controversy. This article concludes that a minimum quantum requirement of eight, as demanded by the Z-scheme, is obviously consistent with much contemporary work which puts the measured value for C₃ leaves close to nine. Moreover, while values of less than eight (obtained in some circumstances with micro-organisms), are a reminder that nothing is beyond challenge they are not, in the absence of confirmation and extension, sufficiently compelling to demand rejection of either the Z-scheme or current measuring procedures. This article also shows why, even if the underlying minimum requirement was now accepted beyond all reasonable doubt, there would still be very good reasons for continuing, indefinitely, to measure actual photosynthetic efficiency in the natural environment. It discusses some of the implications of the fact that all plants, if not stressed, appear to photosynthesize at the same rate in low light. It explains the role of fluorescence in its relation to quantum yield, the possibility that the rate of photosynthesis might be determined from fluorescence measurements alone, and that a combination of fluorescence and gas exchange measurements could provide new information about the manner in which 'dark respiration' is affected by light. It indicates how contemporary interest in all of these matters has focused attention on the necessity for safe dissipation of excitation energy by leaves and on the manner by which this might be achieved. CONTENTS Summary 325 I. Excitation 325 II. Quantum requirement 326 III. Learning from fluorescence 335 IV. Safely dissipated 340 Acknowledgements 342 References 342.

Photosynthetic oxygen evolution and chlorophyll fluorescence in intact isolated chloroplasts on a solid support: the influence of orthophosphate

We devised recently a method to trap intact isolated chloroplasts on a solid support consisting of membrane filters made of cellulose nitrate (Cerović et al., 1987, Plant Physiol. 84, 1249-1251). The addition of alkaline phosphatase to the reaction medium enabled continuous photosynthesis by spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) chloroplasts to be sustained by hydrolysis of newly produced and exported triose phosphates and recycling of orthophosphate. In this system, simultaneous measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence and oxygen evolution were performed and their dependence on orthophosphate concentration was investigated. Optimal photosynthesis was obtained at a much higher initial orthophosphate concentration (2-4 mM) compared to intact chloroplasts in suspension. Secondary kinetics of chlorophyll fluorescence yield were observed and were shown to depend on the initial orthophosphate concentration.

Non-photochemical quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence in the green alga Dunaliella

The relaxation of the non-photochemical quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence has been investigated in cells of the green alga Dunaliella following illumination. The relaxation after the addition of DCMU or darkening was strongly biphasic. The uncoupler NH4Cl induced rapid relaxation of both phases, which were therefore both energy-dependent quenching, qE. The proportion of the slow phase of qE increased at increasing light intensity. In the presence of the inhibitors rotenone and antimycin the slow phase of qE was stabilised for in excess of 15 min. NaN3 inhibited the relaxation of almost all the qE. The implications of these results are discussed in terms of the interpretation of the non-photochemical quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence in vivo and the mechanism of qE.

Fluorescence characteristics of photoautotrophic soybean cells

We report here the first measurements on chlorophyll (Chl) a fluorescence characteristics of photoautotrophic soybean cells (cell lines SB-P and SBI-P). The cell fluorescence is free from severe distortion problems encountered in higher plant leaves. Chl a fluorescence spectra at 77 K show, after correction for the spectral sensitivity of the photomultiplier and the emission monochromator, peaks at 688, 696 and 745 nm, representing antenna systems of photosystem II-CP43 and CP47, and photosystem I, respectively. Calculations, based on the complementary area over the Chl a fluorescence induction curve, indicated a ratio of 6 of the mobile plastoquinone (including QB) to the primary stable electron acceptor, the bound plastoquinone QA. A ratio of one between the secondary stable electron acceptor, bound plastoquinone QB, and its reduced form QB (-) was obtained by using a double flash technique. Owing to this ratio, the flash number dependence of the Chl a fluorescence showed a distinct period of four, implying a close relationship to the 'S' state of the oxygen evolution mechanism. Analysis of the QA (-) reoxidation kinetics showed (1) the halftime of each of the major decay components (∼ 300 μs fast and ∼ 30 ms slow) increases with the increase of diuron and atrazine concentrations; and (2) the amplitudes of the fast and the slow components change in a complementary fashion, the fast component disappearing at high concentrations of the inhibitors. This implies that the inhibitors used are able to totally displace QB. In intact soybean cells, the relative amplitude of the 30 ms to 300 μs component is higher (40:60) than that in spinach chloroplasts (30:70), implying a larger contribution of the centers with unbound QB. SB-P and SBI-P soybean cells display a slightly different sensitivity of QA (-) decay to inhibitors.

Inhibition of photosynthesis of sunflower leaves by an endogenous solute and interdependence of different photosynthetic reactions

Photosynthesis of Helianthus annuus L. leaves was transiently inhibited and respiration was stimulated when a leaf was detached from the plant by cutting the petiole under water. These effects were caused by a solute which was released by cutting and was transported by the transpiration stream to the leaf blade. This endogenous solute decreased the quantum efficiency of photosynthesis and inhibited reactions of the Calvin cycle. It exerts its effects by uncoupling ATP synthesis from electron transport, thus stimulating respiration and inhibiting photosynthesis. The observation that not only the ATP-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, but also the light-regulated enzymes such as fructose bisphosphatase and ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase were inhibited in the presence of the solute illustrates the complex dependence of Calvin-cycle enzymes on the energization and the redox state of the thylakoid system. Since electron pressure increased during the inhibition of photosynthesis, deactivation of fructose bisphosphatase cannot be explained by effects on the thioredoxin system which is responsible for the light activation of this enzyme.

Temperature and light dependent modifications of chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics in spruce needles during winter

Prompt chlorophyll a fluorescence kinetics at room temperature were measured from intact spruce needles. The fluorescence signal was recorded after varying light pretreatments. During the winter, induction curves showed characteristic changes in both the initial peak of fluorescence FV/FP (FP-FO/FP) and the steady state level Fdr (FP-FT/FP). Winter stress induced decreases in both values which showed close correlation to the light and temperature pre-history of the plants. In February changes in fluorescence induction indicative of a restoration of photosynthesis were detected and these corresponded to a rise of temperature above zero in combination with low light levels. In March increasing light intensity combined with chilling temperatures induced again decreases of both values of chlorophyll fluorescence induction suggesting the occurrence of photoinhibition.

Observation and characterisation of a transient in the yield of chlorophyll fluorescence in intact spinach chloroplasts

A transient in chlorophyll fluorescence, which is associated with a transient in 9-aminoacridine fluorescence and a perturbation in the rate of oxygen evolution, has been observed in intact spinach chloroplasts. The results indicate that changes in the redox state of Q are, at least partially, responsible for the transient in chlorophyll fluorescence. The size of the transient is highly dependent upon the concentration of inorganic phosphate and upon the pH of the medium. The properties of the transient are consistent with the suggestion that it reflects changes in the levels of stromal intermediates during induction.

Sudden changes in the rate of photosynthetic oxygen evolution and chlorophyll fluorescence in intact isolated chloroplasts: the role of orthophosphate

Simultaneous "ripples" (sudden changes in rate) in CO2 dependent O2 evolution and associated chlorophyll a fluorescence were followed in isolated, largely intact, spinach chloroplasts. These ripples could only be observed under conditions in which the supply of inorganic phosphate was limiting. This limitation was achieved either by 1) omission of phosphate in the assay medium, 2) use of inhibitors of the phosphate translocator, or 3) the addition of triose phosphate, a competitive inhibitor of Pi for the same translocator.The possible relation of these ripples to the dampening oscillations that can be observed in leaves, leaf pieces, isolated cells and protoplasts, is discussed.

Effects of drought on photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence and photoinhibition susceptibility in intact willow leaves

Plants from clonal cuttings of Salix sp. were subjected to a drying cycle of 10 d in a controlled environment. Gas exchange and fluorescence emission were measured on attached leaves. The light-saturated photosynthetic CO2 uptake became progressively inhibited with decreased leaf water potential both at high, and especially, at low intercellular CO2 pressure. The maximal quantum yield of CO2 uptake was more resistant. The inhibition of light-saturated CO2 uptake at leaf water potentials around-10 bar, measured at a natural ambient CO2 concentration, was equally attributable to stomatal and non-stomatal factors, but the further inhibition below this water-stress level was caused solely by non-stomatal factors. The kinetics of fluorescence emission was changed at severe water stress; the slow secondary oscillations of the induction curve were attenuated, and this probably indicates perturbations in the carbon reduction cycle. The influence of light level during the drought period was also studied. Provided the leaves were properly light-acclimated, drought at high and low light levels produced essentially the same effects on photosynthesis. However, low-light-acclimated leaves became more susceptible to photoinhibitory treatment under severe water stress, as compared with well-watered conditions.

The role of carbon dioxide and oxygen in determining chlorophyll fluorescence quenching during leaf development

Chlorophyll fluorescence emission at 680 nm (F680) and the rate of CO2 fixation were measured simultaneously in sections along the length of wheat and maize leaves. These leaves possess a basal meristem and show a gradation in development towards the leaf tip. The redox state of the primary electron acceptor, Q, of photosystem II was estimated using a non-invasive method. Distal mature leaf sections displayed typical F680 induction curves which were generally anti-parallel with CO2 fixation and during which Q became gradually oxidised. In leaf-base sections net assimilation of CO2 was not detectable, F680 quenched slowly and monotonously without displaying any of the oscillations typical of mature tissue and Q remained relatively reduced. Sections cut from mid-regions of the leaf showed intermediate characteristics. There were no major differences between the wheat and maize leaf in the parameters measured. The results support the hypothesis that generation of the transthylakoid proton gradient and associated ATP production is not a major limitation to photosynthesis during leaf development in either C3 or C4 plants. Removal of CO2 from the mature leaf sections caused little change in steady-state F680 and produced about 50% reduction of Q. When O2 was then removed, F680 rose sharply and Q became almost totally reduced. In immature tissue unable to assimilate CO2, removal of O2 alone caused a similar large rise in F680 and reduction of Q whilst removal of CO2 had negligible effects on F680 and the redox state of Q. It is concluded that in leaf tissue unable to assimilate CO2, either because CO2 is absent or the tissue is immature, O2 acts as an electron acceptor and maintains Q in a partially oxidised state. The important implication that O2 may have a role in the prevention of photoinhibition of the photochemical apparatus in the developing leaf is discussed.

Chlorophyll a fluorescence and light-scattering kinetics displayed by leaves during induction of photosynthesis

Light-scattering, which can be taken as an indicator of the transthylakoid proton-gradient, and chlorophyll a fluorescence, have been followed simultaneously during re-illumination of spinach leaves at different energy fluence rates and carbon dioxide concentrations. The slow fluorescence transient ("M peak"), which has been associated with photosynthetic induction, was observed in air only at the lower fluence rates used. Data are presented that indicate that M peaks in chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics can only be observed if there is also a simultaneous transient in light-scattering and that these transients are observed when the dark period is relatively long, fluence rate relatively low, and CO2 concentration relatively high.The results are discussed in relation to the varying demands on ATP by carbon assimilation during induction of photosynthesis at different carbon dioxide concentrations and the manner in which these variations influence the quenching of chlorophyll a fluorescence.

The relationship between light scattering and chlorophyll a fluorescence during oscillations in photosynthetic carbon assimilation

Light scattering, which can be taken as an indicator of the transthylakoid proton gradient, and the 518-nm rise, which can be regarded as a measure of the transthylakoid membrane potential, have been followed during oscillations in chlorophyll a fluorescence, which are known to be associated with corresponding changes in photosynthetic carbon assimilation. Both components oscillated in a manner which was broadly reciprocal to chlorophyll a fluorescence. However, there was a phase shift such that the light-scattering change usually anticipated fluorescence and often also the 518-nm shift. It is concluded that the proton motive force rises and falls slightly in advance of rises and falls in carbon assimilation. The relationship of these changes to a possible underlying mechanism is discussed.

The effect of ionic stress on photosynthesis in Dunaliella tertiolecta : Chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics and spectral characteristics

A comparison of the effects of ionic stress and an uncoupler on long-term fluorescence transients (the 'Kautsky effect') in the green alga Dunaliella tertiolecta indicated that the large quenching induced by ionic stress was caused by a pH gradient across the thylakoid membrane. This possiblity was given support by the increase in the slow phase of 3-(3',4'-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea-induced fluorescence relaxation in algae subjected to ionic stress. Low-temperature fluorescence emission spectra indicated that salt stress enhanced photosystem-I emission in the dark, and a comparison of simultaneous emissions at 695 and 720 nm at room temperature indicated a further increase in photosystem-I emission during the fluorescence transients. Taken together with the decrease in the fast phase of 3-(3',4'-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea-induced fluorescence relaxation in stressed algae, our results indicate that ionic stress stimulates cyclic electron flow, and that non-cyclic flow is inhibited. The effect of sucrose-induced osmotic stress was similar to, but less marked than, the effects of NaCl and KCl; the effect of decreasing the external salinity was small.

Steady-state room temperature fluorescence and CO2 assimilation rates in intact leaves

Steady-state room temperature variable fluorescence from leaves was measured as a function of CO2 pressure in Xanthium strumarium L. and Phaseolus vulgaris L. Measurements were made in a range of light intensities, at normal and low O2 parital pressure and over a range of temperatures.At low CO2 pressure fluorescence increased with increasing CO2. At higher CO2 pressure fluorescence usually decreased with increasing CO2 but occasionally increased slightly. The transition CO2 pressure between the responses could be changed by changing light, O2 pressure, or temperature. This breakpoint in the fluorescence-CO2 curve was a reliable indicator of the transition between ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP) saturated assimilation and RuBP regeneration limited assimilation. The fluorescence signal was not a reliable indicator of O2-insensitive assimilation in these C3 species.

Carbon metabolism and gas exchange in leaves of Zea mays L. : Interaction between the C3 and C 4 pathways during photosynthetic induction

The aim of this work was to investigate the mechanism of formation of triose phosphates and 3-phosphoglycerate during photosynthetic induction in leaves of Zea mays. Simultaneous measurements of gas exchange, chlorophyll a fluorescence and metabolite contents of maize leaves were made. Leaves illuminated in the absence of CO2 showed a build-up of triose phosphates during the first 2 min of illumination which was comparable to the build-up observed in the presence of CO2. Isolated mesophyll protoplasts, which lack the Calvin cycle, also showed a build-up of triose phosphates upon illumination. Leaves contained amounts of phosphoglycerate mutase and enolase adequate to account for the formation of triose phosphates and 3-phosphoglycerate from intermediates of the C4 cycle and their precursors.

The relationship between carbon dioxide fixation and chlorophyll a fluorescence during induction of photosynthesis in maize leaves at different temperatures and carbon dioxide concentrations

The rate of CO2 fixation (Fc) and 680 nm chlorophyll fluorescence emission (F680) were measured simultaneously during induction of photosynthesis in Zea mays L. leaves under varying experimental conditions in order to assess the validity of fluorescence as an indicator of in vivo photosynthetic carbon assimilation. Z. mays leaves showed typical 'Kautsky' fluorescence induction curves consisting of a fast rise in emission (O to P) followed by a slow quenching via a major transient (S-M) to a steady-state (T). After an initial lag, net CO2 assimilation commenced at a point corresponding to the onset of the S-M transient on the F680 induction curve. Subsequently, Fc and F680 always arrived at a steady-state simultaneously. Decreasing the dark-adaption period increased the rate of induction of both parameters. Alteration of leaf temperature produced anti-parallel changes in induction characteristics of Fc and F680. Reducing the CO2 level to below that required for saturation of photosynthesis also produced anti-parallel changes during induction, however, at CO2 concentrations tenfold greater than the atmospheric level the rate of F680 quenching from P to T was appreciably reduced without a similar change in the induction of Fc. Removal of CO2 at steady-state produced only a small increase in F680 and a correspondingly small decrease in F680 occurred when CO2 was re-introduced. The complex relationship between chlorophyll fluorescence and carbon assimilation in vivo is discussed and the applicability of fluorescence as an indicator of carbon assimilation is considered.