Degradation of OEC33 during strong illumination of the PS II: possible participation of reactive oxygen species generated at the lumenal side of PS II

摘要

During the photoinhibition of PS II, the OEC subunits are released from PS II following the degradation of the D1 protein. The OEC subunits re-assemble in PS II after the repair of the photodamaged D1. The OEC33 is stable and has a long life. So far,no specific protease has been reported for the OEC33. In the present study, we show degradation of the OEC33 during the photoinhibition of PS II. Participation of hydroxyl radicals generated at the lumenal side of PS II is suggested in the degradation of the OEC33.