THE INVOLVEMENT OF THE HYDROXYL RADICAL IN THE DESTRUCTIVE PHOTOOXIDATION OF CHLOROPHYLLS <i>IN VIVO</i> AND <i>IN VITRO</i>*

Abstract

Abstract— The photooxidation of chlorophylls in vivo and in aqueous micellar solutions has been investigated. Through spin trapping experiments, it was found that hydroxyl radicals are photo‐produced in these systems if oxygen is present. Optical studies indicate that the rate of photo‐destruction of chlorophyll is spin trap dependent. This suggests that the hydroxyl radical may play a key role in the destruction of chlorophyll.