Comment: Spinach could hold key to efficient, alternative fuel source

Researchers from Purdue University extracted a protien complex called Photosystem II from regular supermarket spinach.

Spinach, possible key to efficient, alternative fuel source (AAP).

A protein found in spinach contains one of the most efficient natural photosynthetic processes in nature, opening the way for advances in biofuel and artificial photosynthesis research.

Researchers from Purdue University extracted a protien complex called Photosystem II from regular supermarket spinach. After extracting, the researchers “excite” the protien with a laser and record changes in the electron configuration of the molecules.

By gaining a better understanding of how natural photosynthesis works, researchers hope that this could lead to the development of clean, sustainable artificial photosynthesis.