Studies of the proton motif force (PMF) in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis with the the aim to maximize photosynthetic hydrogen production

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In photosynthesis light is captured and utilized for water splitting. This results in the transfer of liberated electrons through an electron transfer chain for the production of NADPH and ATP. NADPH and ATP are subsequently utilized by the Calvin-Benson-Bassham (CBB) cycle for CO2 fixation and the synthesis of carbohydrates. In this project we aim to quantify the rates of electron flow through photosystem II (PSII) and photosystem I (PSI) in parallel to O2 and CO2 turnover in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. The collected data will deliver a picture of the involved photosynthetic electron transport routes, the amount of ATP and NADPH produced and consequently also a measure of the proton motif force (PMF) in play. Knowledge on PMF formation and its possible dissipation in the cells is essential in respect to any future use of the photosynthetic electron transport in terms of biological hydrogen production. If a large proportion of the electrons derived from water oxidation is diverted at PSI to H2 production an imbalance of PMF formation compared to NADPH is predetermined. To maximize photosynthetic hydrogen production and to develop a persisting process, it is imperative to dissipate part of the PMF.