Rubisco is an essential enzyme found in plants, algae, and some bacteria. Its full name is ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase. Rubisco plays a crucial role in the process of photosynthesis, where it helps convert carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into organic compounds, such as glucose, which plants use for energy and growth. This enzyme is considered one of the most abundant proteins on Earth. However, it is not very efficient, as it can also react with oxygen, leading to a process called photorespiration. This inefficiency can limit plant productivity, making Rubisco a key focus in research aimed at improving crop yields.