From photosynthesis to biosensing: Chlorophyll proves to be a versatile molecule

Abstract

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants. It is present in special cellular organelle called chloroplast present only in plant cells. Chlorophyll plays a pivotal role in photosynthesis. It has a unique capacity to trap light energy and utilize in photolysis of water molecules to replenish the reducing power of the cells - which is needed in carbon assimilation in subsequent steps of photosynthesis. This property of the pigment is unique and can be exploited in various anthropogenic applications. Apart from this, chlorophyll has also been observed to posses other important activities which add to the suitability of the molecule for different applications. Fluorescence activity of chlorophyll allows it to be used extensively to develop optical biosensors. It also shows mild lasing action which is useful for making organic lasers. It has natural solar cell like function which traps insolation. Additionally, intact chlorophyll system can serve as a very good indicator of herbicide concentration. In this review we have examined the versatility of chlorophyll through studying the various applications where it is utilized. We have compiled the special function of the chlorophyll in the natural process of photosynthesis followed by the utilization of chlorophyll as biomaterials in different applications, in biohydrogen production and its use in biosensors.

Keywords

• Chlorophyll
• Photosynthesis
• Light harvesting unit
• Z scheme
• Fluorescence
• Biomaterials