The role of xanthophyll cycle carotenoids in the protection of photosynthesis

The use of solar energy in photosynthesis depends on the ability to safely dissipate excess energy. The key dissipation process employed by plants in their natural environment is mediated by a particular group of carotenoids. Multiple levels of control allow adjustments in energy dissipation activity in response to changing levels of light stress in the natural environment. Recent advances in the understanding of the photophysics, biochemical regulation and ecophysiology of this essential photoprotective process are reviewed.