Bioelectrostatics: Review of widespread importance in biochemistry

The literature reveals an extensive involvement of electrostatics in biological systems. In our prior articles, supporting evidence was cited from sulfates, volatile anesthetics, electron transport in photosynthesis and molecular electrostatic potential studies with DNA. A recent review addresses the involvement of electrochemistry in cell signaling. According to the theoretical framework, electrostatics is believed to be importantly involved in phosphate action in receptors and cell signaling. The main focus is on energetics associated with bioelectrostatics. Examples include action of enzymes, such as, xylose isomerase, SOD and cytochrome c oxidase. In the membrane area, reports deal with the phospholipase-membrane and the nuclear membrane. Other categories are chromosomes, oxidation by hydroxyl radicals, receptors, Hofmeister effect, and histamine. In addition, electrostatic effects have been examined in the plant kingdom.