An Insight of RuBisCO Evolution through a Multilevel Approach

RuBisCO is the most abundant enzyme on earth; it regulates the organic carbon cycle in the biosphere. Studying its structural evolution will help to develop new strategies of genetic improvement in order to increase food production and mitigate CO2 emissions. In the present work, we evaluate how the evolution of sequence and structure among isoforms I, II and III of RuBisCO defines their intrinsic flexibility and residue-residue interactions. To do this, we used a multilevel approach based on phylogenetic inferences, multiple sequence alignment, normal mode analysis, and molecular dynamics. Our results show that the three isoforms exhibit greater fluctuation in the loop between αB and βC, and also present a positive correlation with loop 6, an important region for enzymatic activity because it regulates RuBisCO conformational states. Likewise, an increase in the flexibility of the loop structure between αB and βC, as well as Lys330 (form II) and Lys322 (form III) of loop 6, is important to increase photosynthetic efficiency. Thus, the cross-correlation dynamics analysis showed changes in the direction of movement of the secondary structures in the three isoforms. Finally, key amino acid residues related to the flexibility of the RuBisCO structure were indicated, providing important information for its enzymatic engineering.

Methodology of system analysis for research of energy efficiency problems in Ukraine

The results of the research on the application of a systematic approach to solving energy efficiency problems in Ukraine are presented. The reasons for restraining the level of energy efficiency are highlighted, among which are the hollowing: ineffective policy of incentives to reduce energy consumption; lack of investments and conditions for their attraction; inefficient tariff and price policy in the energy sector of the economy, non-compliance with regulations, programs of various levels and measures. The need to increase the level of energy efficiency in Ukraine is substantiated and a system analysis is proposed to solve this problem. The methodology of systems analysis is implemented using a systems approach, in particular, to the interpretation of the process of energy efficiency development as an open, nonlinear, complex system. As an element of systems analysis, the study uses a multilevel approach, which provides an opportunity to consider the object of study at different hierarchical levels: the international community, state, industry, region and individual. It is noted that in order to successfully develop the progress of energy efficiency in Ukraine, it is necessary to take into account global trends and recent large-scale changes in this area. Examples of progress realization at the state level are given, in particular, implementation of a large number of legal acts, a number of stimulating measures for energy saving, etc. The importance of the sectoral level to increase energy efficiency in Ukraine is indicated. The importance of energy efficiency potential at the regional level is emphasized, which can give a significant boost to its entire economy and significantly improve the lives of the population. The importance of optimizing the process of energy efficiency at the level of various institutions is presented; as one of the options for solving this problem, it is proposed to popularize its benefits both among the population and the individual. The multilevel approach to energy efficiency in Ukraine proposed in the study presupposes an integrated combination of efforts at different levels and a synergistic effect of solving the problem. Key words: energy efficiency, system, multilevel approach