Reaction sequence of iron sulfide minerals in bacteria and their use as biomarkers

Photosynthesis-Mediated Intracellular Biomineralization of Gold Nanoparticles inside Chlorella Cells towards Hydrogen Boosting under Green Light

Engineering living microorganisms to enhance green biomanufacturing for the development of sustainable and carbon-neutral energy strategies has attracted the interest of researchers from a wide range of scientific communities. In this study, we develop a method to achieve photosynthesis-mediated biomineralization of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) inside Chlorella cells, where the photosynthesis-dominated reduction of Au3+ to Au0 allows the formed AuNPs to locate preferentially around the thylakoid membrane domain. In particular, we reveal that the electrons generated by the localized surface plasmon resonance of AuNPs could greatly augment hypoxic photosynthesis, which then promotes the generation and transferring of photoelectrons throughout the photosynthetic chain for augmented hydrogen production under sunlight. We demonstrate that the electrons from AuNPs could be directly transferred to hydrogenase, giving rise to an 8.3-fold enhancement of Chlorella cells hydrogen production independent of the cellular photosynthetic process under monochromatic 560 nm light irradiation. Overall, the photosynthesis-mediated intracellular biomineralization of AuNPs could contribute to a novel paradigm for functionalizing Chlorella cells to augment biomanufacturing.

Periplasmic Bacterial Biomineralization of Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles

Metal sulfides are a common group of extracellular bacterial biominerals. However, only a few cases of intracellular biomineralization are reported in this group, mostly limited to greigite (Fe3 S4 ) in magnetotactic bacteria. Here, a previously unknown periplasmic biomineralization of copper sulfide produced by the magnetotactic bacterium Desulfamplus magnetovallimortis strain BW-1, a species known to mineralize greigite (Fe3 S4 ) and magnetite (Fe3 O4 ) in the cytoplasm is reported. BW-1 produces hundreds of spherical nanoparticles, composed of 1-2 nm substructures of a poorly crystalline hexagonal copper sulfide structure that remains in a thermodynamically unstable state. The particles appear to be surrounded by an organic matrix as found from staining and electron microscopy inspection. Differential proteomics suggests that periplasmic proteins, such as a DegP-like protein and a heavy metal-binding protein, could be involved in this biomineralization process. The unexpected periplasmic formation of copper sulfide nanoparticles in BW-1 reveals previously unknown possibilities for intracellular biomineralization that involves intriguing biological control and holds promise for biological metal recovery in times of copper shortage.

Double-edged Sword Role of Iron-loaded Ferritin in Extracellular Vesicles

Human epidemiological and animal studies have demonstrated that excess iron is a risk for cancer. The responsible mechanisms are: 1) increased intracellular iron catalyzes the Fenton reaction to generate hydroxyl radicals, leading to mutagenic oxidative DNA lesions; 2) iron is necessary for cellular proliferation as cofactors of many enzymes. Thus, iron-excess milieu promotes selecting cellular evolution to ferroptosis-resistance, a major basis for carcinogenesis. Ferritin is a 24-subunit nanocage protein required for iron storage under the regulation of the iron-regulatory protein (IRP)/iron-responsive element (IRE) system. Ferritin is a serum marker, representing total body iron storage. However, how ferritin is secreted extracellularly has been unelucidated. We recently discovered that an exosomal marker CD63 is regulated by the IRP/IRE system and that iron-loaded ferritin is secreted as extracellular vesicles under the guidance of nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4). On the other hand, we found that macrophages under asbestos-induced ferroptosis emit ferroptosis-dependent extracellular vesicles (FedEVs), which are received by nearby mesothelial cells, resulting in significant mutagenic DNA damage. Therefore, cells, including macrophages, can share excess iron with other cells, via iron-loaded ferritin packaged in extracellular vesicles as safe non-catalytic iron. However, similar process, such as one involving FedEVs, may cause accumulation of excess iron in other specific cells, which may eventually promote carcinogenesis.

Diversity of Microbial Metal Sulfide Biomineralization

Since the emergence of life on Earth, microorganisms have contributed to biogeochemical cycles. Sulfate-reducing bacteria are an example of widespread microorganisms that participate in the metal and sulfur cycles by biomineralization of biogenic metal sulfides. In this work, we review the microbial biomineralization of metal sulfide particles and summarize distinctive features from exemplary cases. We highlight that metal sulfide biomineralization is highly metal- and organism-specific. The properties of metal sulfide biominerals depend on the degree of cellular control and on environmental factors, such as pH, temperature, and concentration of metals. Moreover, biogenic macromolecules, including peptides and proteins, help cells control their extracellular and intracellular environments that regulate biomineralization. Accordingly, metal sulfide biominerals exhibit unique features when compared to abiotic minerals or biominerals produced by dead cell debris.

Iron-biomineralizing organelle in magnetotactic bacteria: function, synthesis and preservation in ancient rock samples

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are ubiquitous aquatic microorganisms that incorporate iron from their environment to synthesize intracellular nanoparticles of magnetite (Fe₃ O₄ ) or greigite (Fe₃ S₄ ) in a genetically controlled manner. Magnetite and greigite magnetic phases allow MTB to swim towards redox transition zones where they thrive. MTB may represent some of the oldest microorganisms capable of synthesizing minerals on Earth and have been proposed to significantly impact the iron biogeochemical cycle by immobilizing soluble iron into crystals that subsequently fossilize in sedimentary rocks. In the present article, we describe the distribution of MTB in the environment and discuss the possible function of the magnetite and greigite nanoparticles. We then provide an overview of the chemical mechanisms leading to iron mineralization in MTB. Finally, we update the methods used for the detection of MTB crystals in sedimentary rocks and present their occurrences in the geological record.

Microbially Mediated Ore-Forming Processes and Cell Mineralization

Sedimentary black shale-hosted manganese carbonate and oxide ores were studied by high-resolution in situ detailed optical and cathodoluminescence microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR spectroscopy to determine microbial contribution in metallogenesis. This study of the Urucum Mn deposit in Brazil is included as a case study for microbially mediated ore-forming processes. The results were compared and interpreted in a comparative way, and the data were elaborated by a complex, structural hierarchical method. The first syngenetic products of microbial enzymatic oxidation were ferrihydrite and lepidocrocite on the Fe side, and vernadite, todorokite, birnessite, and manganite on the Mn side, formed under obligatory oxic (Mn) and suboxic (Fe) conditions and close to neutral pH. Fe- and Mn-oxidizing bacteria played a basic role in metallogenesis based on microtextural features, bioindicator minerals, and embedded variable organic matter. Trace element content is determined by source of elements and microbial activity. The present Urucum (Brazil), Datangpo (China), and Úrkút (Hungary) deposits are the result of complex diagenetic processes, which include the decomposition and mineralization of cell and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) of Fe and Mn bacteria and cyanobacteria. Heterotrophic cell colonies activated randomly in the microbialite sediment after burial in suboxic neutral/alkaline conditions, forming Mn carbonates and variable cation-bearing oxides side by side with lithification and stabilization of minerals. Deposits of variable geological ages and geographical occurrences show strong similarities and indicate two-step microbial metallogenesis: a primary chemolithoautotrophic, and a diagenetic heterotrophic microbial cycle, influenced strongly by mineralization of cells and EPSs. These processes perform a basic role in controlling major and trace element distribution in sedimentary environments on a global level and place biogeochemical constraints on the element content of natural waters, precipitation of minerals, and water contaminants.

Optimized culturing conditions for an algicidal bacterium Pseudoalteromonas sp. SP48 on harmful algal blooms caused by Alexandrium tamarense

Bacteria play an important role in preventing algal blooms and reducing their harm to the environment. To improve the algicidal activity of Pseudoalteromonas SP48 which had an inhibition effect on dinoflagellate Alexandrium tamarense, its growth medium and fermentation conditions were optimized for this bacterium. In this study, we used two steps to establish the optimum conditions. First, the proper proportion of medium was selected based on an orthogonal design. Then, the fermentation conditions were further optimized through uniform design in an enlarged 5L bioreactor. To test the algicidal ability of Pseudoalteromonas SP48 under the optimum conditions, algal cell morphology was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). After the orthogonal design, we found that the optimum medium was [0.7% (m/v) tryptone, 0.2% (m/v) soluble starch, 0.2% (m/v) sucrose, 0.1% (m/v) FeSO₄, and 1.2% (m/v) K₂HPO₄] for Pseudoalteromonas SP48 growth. Based on these results, optimum fermentation conditions were further explored in a 5L fermentation cylinder using a uniform design; the influence of variables such as incubation time, carbon type, and rotation speed were tested. The optimal fermentation conditions were fermentation time (42 hr), tryptone (1.1%), seeding volume (1.4 × 10¹³ cells), and rotation speed (250 r/min). Under these established optimum conditions, the biomass of strain SP48 increased by 79.2% and its lethal dose 50% (LD₅₀) decreased by 54.0%, respectively. The TEM results showed that compared with the control group, the cell wall and cell membrane of A. tamarense were significantly damaged, and the structure and shape of the organelles were destroyed by algicidal bacteria of Pseudoalteromonas SP48. Overall, our results demonstrate that the optimized culture conditions could significantly enhance the algicidal activity of Pseudoalteromonas SP48 against a harmful dinoflagellate, such as A. tamarense. It will effectively provide a scientific foundation for both production of algicidal substances and HABs control.

A density functional theory study of the hydrogenation and reduction of the thio-spinel Fe3S4{111} surface

The mineral greigite, Fe3S4, shows promising electro-reduction activity, especially towards carbon dioxide conversion to small organic molecules. We have employed density functional theory calculations with correction for the long-range dispersion forces to investigate the behavior of hydrogen on the greigite{111} surface. We have studied the adsorption, diffusion, surface reduction and associative (i.e. Volmer-Tafel mechanism) and molecular desorption of hydrogen as a function of its coverage. We found that (i) the H ad-atoms adsorb on S sites far from metallic centres in the topmost surface layer; (ii) the reduction of greigite by hydrogen is energetically unfavorable at any surface coverage; and (iii) molecular hydrogen evolution has a transition state at ∼0.5 eV above the energy of the reactants on Fe3S4{111}, which is very similar to the barrier found experimentally on Pt{111}. We have also determined the electrode potential under room conditions at which the H2 evolution reaction becomes energetically barrierless.

Diversity and Characterization of Multicellular Magnetotactic Prokaryotes From Coral Reef Habitats of the Paracel Islands, South China Sea

While multicellular magnetotactic prokaryotes (MMPs) are ubiquitous in marine environments, the diversity of MMPs in sediments of coral reef ecosystems has rarely been reported. In this study, we made an investigation on the diversity and characteristics of MMPs in sediments at 11 stations in coral reef habitats of the Paracel Islands. The results showed that MMPs were present at nine stations, with spherical mulberry-like MMPs (s-MMPs) found at all stations and ellipsoidal pineapple-like MMPs (e-MMPs) found at seven stations. The maximum abundance of MMPs was 6 ind./cm³. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of one e-MMP species and five s-MMP species including two species of a new genus. The results indicate that coral reef habitats of the Paracel Islands have a high diversity of MMPs that bio-mineralize multiple intracellular chains of iron crystals and play important role in iron cycling in such oligotrophic environment. These observations provide new perspective of the diversity of MMPs in general and expand knowledge of the occurrence of MMPs in coral reef habitats.

Greigite nanocrystals produced by hyperthermophilic archaea of Thermococcales order

Interactions between hyperthermophilic archaea and minerals occur in hydrothermal deep-sea vents, one of the most extreme environments for life on Earth. These interactions occur in the internal pores and at surfaces of active hydrothermal chimneys. In this study, we show that, at 85°C, Thermococcales, the predominant hyperthermophilic microorganisms inhabiting hot parts of hydrothermal deep-sea vents, produce greigite nanocrystals (Fe3S4) on extracellular polymeric substances, and that an amorphous iron phosphate acts as a precursor phase. Greigite, although a minor component of chimneys, is a recognized catalyst for CO2 reduction thus implying that Thermococcales may influence the balance of CO2 in hydrothermal ecosystems. We propose that observation of greigite nanocrystals on extracellular polymeric substances could provide a signature of hyperthermophilic life in hydrothermal deep-sea vents.

Fossilized Bacteria in Fe-Mn-Mineralization: Evidence from the Legrena Valley, W. Lavrion Mine (Greece)

The primary mineralization in the famous Lavrion mine in the Lavreotiki area, Attica (Greece), associated with a granodiorite intrusion of Upper Miocene age and composed of massive sulphide Pb-Zn-Ag ores [sphalerite, pyrite and galena (B.P.G)], has been extensively studied. The present study is focused on thin, hard, dark brown to black Fe-Mn crusts (a few mm to cm in thickness) in the Legrena valley, SW Lavreotiki, aiming to provide new insights on that type of Fe-Mn-mineralization. The scanning electron microscope (SEM)/energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) data presented revealed the presence of fine rounded fragments, resembling nodules (up to 200 μm) and fossilized bacteriomorphic Fe-Mn-oxides/hydroxides, within brecciated and foliated zones of carbonate rocks. They exhibit unusual features when compared to the common massive Fe-Mn mineralization with regards the following: (a) the extensive occurrence of bacteriomorphic Fe-oxides/hydroxides and their micro-textures; and (b) the minor elements (K, Na, P, S, Ca, As and Cl). The occurrence of abundant bacteriomophic Fe-Mn-oxides/hydroxides in the samples from the Legrena valley may reflect their catalytic role in the redox reactions during ore-forming processes. The characteristic features of that type of Fe-Mn mineralization seems to be the result of multistage supergene processes superimposed over initial hydrothermal stages. Such a multistage remobilization and precipitation of metals along open space surfaces on karstified carbonates during a subsequent stage of their initial precipitation may be widespread in the Attica region, Greece.

Morphological and cellular diversity of magnetotactic bacteria: A review

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are getting much attention in the recent years due to the biomineralization in their magnetosomes (MS). MS are unique organelles that are bio-mineralized due to MTB. MS contains nanosized crystal minerals of magnetite or greigite covered by bilayer lipid membrane, which are originated from cytoplasmic membrane (CM). MS are organized as an ordered chain into the cell which acts as a miniature compass needle. Furthermore, the biodiversity of MTB and their distribution is principally linked with the characteristics and growths of the MS. MTB are often considered as a part of the bacterial biomass from all of the aquatic environments. There have been a lot of genes that control the functions of MTB by accumulating as clusters of genomes such as magnetosomes genomic island (MAI). Therefore, in the present review, the function of the genes and proteins has been highlighted, which are mainly associated with the construction and formation of MS. In addition, the biodiversity, morphology and cell biology of MTB is discussed in greater detail to understand the formation of MS crystals by MTB.

Selective orbital reconstruction in tetragonal FeS: A density functional dynamical mean-field theory study

Transport properties of tetragonal iron monosulfide, mackinawite, show a range of complex features. Semiconductive behavior and proximity to metallic states with nodal superconductivity mark this d-band system as unconventional quantum material. Here, we use the density functional dynamical mean-field theory (DFDMFT) scheme to comprehensively explain why tetragonal FeS shows both semiconducting and metallic responses in contrast to tetragonal FeSe which is a pseudogaped metal above the superconducting transition temperature. Within local-density-approximation plus dynamical mean-field theory (LDA+DMFT) we characterize its paramagnetic insulating and metallic phases, showing the proximity of mackinawite to selective Mott localization. We report the coexistence of pseudogaped and anisotropic Dirac-like electronic dispersion at the border of the Mott transition. These findings announce a new understanding of many-particle physics in quantum materials with coexisting Dirac-fermions and pseudogaped electronic states at low energies. Based on our results we propose that in electron-doped FeS substantial changes would be seen when the metallic regime was tuned towards an electronic state that hosts unconventional superconductivity.

Transformation of mackinawite to greigite by trichloroethylene and tetrachloroethylene

Trichloroethylene (TCE) and tetrachloroethylene (PCE) are common ground water contaminants susceptible to reductive dechlorination by FeS (mackinawite) in anaerobic environments. The objective of this study was to characterize the mineral-associated products that form when mackinawite reacts with TCE and PCE. The dissolved products of the reaction included Cl^- and Fe²⁺, and trace amounts of cis 1,2-dichloroethylene (for TCE) and TCE (for PCE). Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) analysis identified greigite as a mackinawite oxidation product formed after reaction between TCE or PCE and FeS over seven weeks. Release of Fe²⁺ is consistent with the solid state transformation of mackinawite to greigite, resulting in depletion of the solid with Fe. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of the sulfur 2p peak showed a shift to a higher binding energy after FeS reacted with TCE or PCE, also observed in other studies of mackinawite oxidation to greigite. The results may help efforts to maintain the reactivity of FeS generated to remediate chlorinated aliphatic contaminants in ground water.

From bacteria to mollusks: the principles underlying the biomineralization of iron oxide materials

Various organisms possess a genetic program that enables the controlled formation of a mineral, a process termed biomineralization. The variety of biological material architectures is mind-boggling and arises from the ability of organisms to exert control over crystal nucleation and growth. The structure and composition of biominerals equip biomineralizing organisms with properties and functionalities that abiotically formed materials, made of the same mineral, usually lack. Therefore, elucidating the mechanisms underlying biomineralization and morphogenesis is of interdisciplinary interest to extract design principles that will enable the biomimetic formation of functional materials with similar capabilities. Herein, we summarize what is known about iron oxides formed by bacteria and mollusks for their magnetic and mechanical properties. We describe the chemical and biological machineries that are involved in controlling mineral precipitation and organization and show how these organisms are able to form highly complex structures under physiological conditions.

Methanol formation from CO2catalyzed by Fe3S4{111}: formate versus hydrocarboxyl pathways

Carbon capture and utilisation is one of the most promising techniques to minimize the impact of the increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Recently, the mineral greigite was shown to be capable of catalysing CO₂conversion, leading to useful small organic molecules. Here, we have carried out a systematic study of the adsorption and selective reduction of CO₂on the Fe₃S₄{111} surface. We have considered both formate and hydrocarboxyl key intermediates, leading to different reaction pathwaysviaEley–Rideal and Langmuir–Hinshelwood mechanisms, and we have built a kinetic model considering the wide range of intermediates in the reaction network. Our results show that the mechanism to produce formic acid takes placeviaformate intermediate mostly on Fe_Asites, while methanol is formedviahydrocarboxyl intermediates on Fe_Bsites. From the kinetic model, we have derived a reaction constant comparison and determined the limiting step rates. The overall process takes place under very mild conditions, requiring only a small energy input that might come from a chemiosmotic potential.

Alpha-Oxo Acids Assisted Transformation of FeS to Fe3S4 at Low Temperature: Implications for Abiotic, Biotic, and Prebiotic Mineralization

The mineral greigite (Fe3S4) distributes widely in anoxic marine and lake sedimentary systems, with important implications for magnetostratigraphy and paleomagnetism. In living organisms, magnetotactic bacteria can synthesize greigite grains with regular sizes and morphologies. The cubic Fe3S4 structure also occurs as an integral constituent and active center in a family of iron-sulfur proteins in all life-forms on Earth. This basic biochemistry shared by all organisms implies that the Fe3S4 structure might have evolved in the first protocell. Therefore, greigite is of general interest in geochemistry, geophysics, biomineralogy, and origin-of-life sciences. However, the growth of thermodynamically metastable Fe3S4 crystals often requires strictly defined conditions because both Fe and S show variable valences and it is hard to tune their valence fluctuation. Here, we show that freshly precipitated FeS can be selectively oxidized to form greigite in the presence of α-oxo acids, even at room temperature. Based on a brief overview of the experimental findings, a metal-organic complex intermediate model has been put forward and discussed for the discriminative chemical transformation. The results not only provide a possible pathway for the abiotic formation of greigite in nature but also may help explain the biotic mineralization of greigite in magnetotactic bacteria. Moreover, in the context of prebiotic evolution, along with the synergic evolution between greigite and α-oxo acids, Fe3S4 might have been sequestered by primordial peptides, and the whole finally evolved into the first iron-sulfur protein.

KEY WORDS

Greigite-Mineralization-α-Oxo acid-Magnetosome-Iron-sulfur protein-Prebiotic evolution.

Temporal distributions and environmental adaptations of two types of multicellular magnetotactic prokaryote in the sediments of Lake Yuehu, China

Two morphotypes (spherical and ellipsoidal) of multicellular magnetotactic prokaryotes (MMPs) have been reported from the sediments of Lake Yuehu, China. Here, their temporal distributions and their relationships with biogeochemical parameters are studied. Samples were collected at approximately 2-week intervals from two sites (A and B) during the period September 2012 to December 2013. The abundance of MMPs was high in summer and autumn, but low in winter and spring. Furthermore, the peaks in the numbers of the two types of MMPs were sequential, with the highest concentration of the spherical MMPs occurring prior to that of the ellipsoidal MMPs. This may be related to different optimal growth temperatures for the two types. Although the two types of MMP coexisted at both sites, their numbers were different; at most times, spherical MMPs dominated at site A, whereas ellipsoidal MMPs dominated at site B. Geochemical analysis revealed that the environmental conditions at site A varied more than at site B. Compared with the widely distributed spherical MMPs, ellipsoidal MMPs seemed to prefer more stable habitats. This is the first report of the temporal distribution of ellipsoidal MMPs in sediments, suggesting that their environmental adaptations differ from those of spherical MMPs.

Single-cell genomics reveals potential for magnetite and greigite biomineralization in an uncultivated multicellular magnetotactic prokaryote

For magnetic orientation, magnetotactic bacteria biosynthesize magnetosomes, which consist of membrane-enveloped magnetic nanocrystals of either magnetite (Fe3 O4 ) or greigite (Fe3 S4 ). While magnetite formation is increasingly well understood, much less is known about the genetic control of greigite biomineralization. Recently, two related yet distinct sets of magnetosome genes were discovered in a cultivated magnetotactic deltaproteobacterium capable of synthesizing either magnetite or greigite, or both minerals. This led to the conclusion that greigite and magnetite magnetosomes are synthesized by separate biomineralization pathways. Although magnetosomes of both mineral types co-occurred in uncultured multicellular magnetotactic prokaryotes (MMPs), so far only one type of magnetosome genes could be identified in the available genome data. The MMP Candidatus Magnetomorum strain HK-1 from coastal tidal sand flats of the North Sea (Germany) was analysed by a targeted single-cell approach. The draft genome assembly resulted in a size of 14.3 Mb and an estimated completeness of 95%. In addition to genomic features consistent with a sulfate-reducing lifestyle, we identified numerous genes putatively involved in magnetosome biosynthesis. Remarkably, most mam orthologues were present in two paralogous copies with highest similarity to either magnetite or greigite type magnetosome genes, supporting the ability to synthesize magnetite and greigite magnetosomes.

A novel species of ellipsoidal multicellular magnetotactic prokaryotes from Lake Yuehu in China

Two morphotypes of multicellular magnetotactic prokaryotes (MMPs) have been identified: spherical (several species) and ellipsoidal (previously one species). Here, we report novel ellipsoidal MMPs that are ∼ 10 × 8 μm in size, and composed of about 86 cells arranged in six to eight interlaced circles. Each MMP was composed of cells that synthesized either bullet-shaped magnetite magnetosomes alone, or both bullet-shaped magnetite and rectangular greigite magnetosomes. They showed north-seeking magnetotaxis, ping-pong motility and negative phototaxis at a velocity up to 300 μm s(-1) . During reproduction, they divided along either their long- or short-body axes. For genetic analysis, we sorted the ellipsoidal MMPs with micromanipulation and amplified their genomes using multiple displacement amplification. We sequenced the 16S rRNA gene and found 6.9% sequence divergence from that of ellipsoidal MMPs, Candidatus Magnetananas tsingtaoensis and > 8.3% divergence from those of spherical MMPs. Therefore, the novel MMPs belong to different species and genus compared with the currently known ellipsoidal and spherical MMPs respectively. The novel MMPs display a morphological cell differentiation, implying a potential division of labour. These findings provide new insights into the diversity of MMPs in general, and contribute to our understanding of the evolution of multicellularity among prokaryotes.

Ecology, diversity, and evolution of magnetotactic bacteria

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are widespread, motile, diverse prokaryotes that biomineralize a unique organelle called the magnetosome. Magnetosomes consist of a nano-sized crystal of a magnetic iron mineral that is enveloped by a lipid bilayer membrane. In cells of almost all MTB, magnetosomes are organized as a well-ordered chain. The magnetosome chain causes the cell to behave like a motile, miniature compass needle where the cell aligns and swims parallel to magnetic field lines. MTB are found in almost all types of aquatic environments, where they can account for an important part of the bacterial biomass. The genes responsible for magnetosome biomineralization are organized as clusters in the genomes of MTB, in some as a magnetosome genomic island. The functions of a number of magnetosome genes and their associated proteins in magnetosome synthesis and construction of the magnetosome chain have now been elucidated. The origin of magnetotaxis appears to be monophyletic; that is, it developed in a common ancestor to all MTB, although horizontal gene transfer of magnetosome genes also appears to play a role in their distribution. The purpose of this review, based on recent progress in this field, is focused on the diversity and the ecology of the MTB and also the evolution and transfer of the molecular determinants involved in magnetosome formation.

A comparative DFT study of the mechanical and electronic properties of greigite Fe3S4 and magnetite Fe3O4

Greigite (Fe3S4) and its analogue oxide, magnetite (Fe3O4), are natural minerals with an inverse spinel structure whose atomic-level properties may be difficult to investigate experimentally. Here, [D. Rickard and G. W. Luther, Chem. Rev. 107, 514 (2007)] we have calculated the elastic constants and other macroscopic mechanical properties by applying elastic strains on the unit cells. We also have carried out a systematic study of the electronic properties of Fe3S4 and Fe3O4, where we have used an ab initio method based on spin-polarized density functional theory with the on-site Coulomb repulsion approximation (Ueff is 1.0 and 3.8 eV for Fe3S4 and Fe3O4, respectively). Comparison of the properties of Fe3S4 and Fe3O4 shows that the sulfide is more covalent than the oxide, which explains the low magnetization of saturation of greigite cited in several experimental reports.

Phylogenetic significance of composition and crystal morphology of magnetosome minerals

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) biomineralize magnetosomes, nano-scale crystals of magnetite or greigite in membrane enclosures that comprise a permanent magnetic dipole in each cell. MTB control the mineral composition, habit, size, and crystallographic orientation of the magnetosomes, as well as their arrangement within the cell. Studies involving magnetosomes that contain mineral and biological phases require multidisciplinary efforts. Here we use crystallographic, genomic and phylogenetic perspectives to review the correlations between magnetosome mineral habits and the phylogenetic affiliations of MTB, and show that these correlations have important implications for the evolution of magnetosome synthesis, and thus magnetotaxis.

Stomatobaculum longum gen. nov., sp. nov., an obligately anaerobic bacterium from the human oral cavity

A strictly anaerobic Gram-stain-variable but positive by structure, non-spore-forming bacterium designated Lachnospiraceae bacterium ACC2 strain DSM 24645(T) was isolated from human subgingival dental plaque. Bacterial cells were 4-40 µm long non-motile rods, often swollen and forming curved filaments up to 200 µm. Cells contained intracellular, poorly crystalline, nanometre-sized iron- and sulfur-rich particles. The micro-organism was able to grow on yeast extract, trypticase peptone, milk, some sugars and organic acids. The major metabolic end-products of glucose fermentation were butyrate, lactate, isovalerate and acetate. The growth temperature and pH ranges were 30-42 °C and 4.9-7.5, respectively. Major fatty acids were C14 : 0, C14 : 0 DMA (dimethyl aldehyde), C16 : 0, C16 : 1ω7c DMA. The whole-cell hydrolysate contained meso-diaminopimelic acid, indicating peptidoglycan type A1γ. The DNA G+C content was calculated to be 55.05 mol% from the whole-genome sequence and 55.3 mol% as determined by HPLC. There were no predicted genes responsible for biosynthesis of respiratory lipoquinones, mycolic acids and lipopolysaccharides. Genes associated with synthesis of teichoic and lipoteichoic acids, diaminopimelic acid, polar lipids and polyamines were present. According to the 16S rRNA gene sequence phylogeny, strain DSM 24645(T) formed, together with several uncultured oral clones, a separate branch within the family Lachnospiraceae, with the highest sequence similarity to the type strain of Moryella indoligenes at 94.2 %. Based on distinct phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, we suggest that strain DSM 24645(T) represents a novel species in a new genus, for which the name Stomatobaculum longum gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Stomatobaculum longum is DSM 24645(T) ( = HM-480(T); deposited in BEI Resources, an NIH collection managed by the ATCC).

Molecular mechanisms of compartmentalization and biomineralization in magnetotactic bacteria

Magnetotactic bacteria (MB) are remarkable organisms with the ability to exploit the earth's magnetic field for navigational purposes. To do this, they build specialized compartments called magnetosomes that consist of a lipid membrane and a crystalline magnetic mineral. These organisms have the potential to serve as models for the study of compartmentalization as well as biomineralization in bacteria. Additionally, they offer the opportunity to design applications that take advantage of the particular properties of magnetosomes. In recent years, a sustained effort to identify the molecular basis of this process has resulted in a clearer understanding of the magnetosome formation and biomineralization. Here, I present an overview of MB and explore the possible molecular mechanisms of membrane remodeling, protein sorting, cytoskeletal organization, iron transport, and biomineralization that lead to the formation of a functional magnetosome organelle.

Iron transformations induced by an acid-tolerant Desulfosporosinus species

The mineralogical transformations of Fe phases induced by an acid-tolerant, Fe(III)- and sulfate-reducing bacterium, Desulfosporosinus sp. strain GBSRB4.2 were evaluated under geochemical conditions associated with acid mine drainage-impacted systems (i.e., low pH and high Fe concentrations). X-ray powder diffractometry coupled with magnetic analysis by first-order reversal curve diagrams were used to evaluate mineral phases produced by GBSRB4.2 in media containing different ratios of Fe(II) and Fe(III). In medium containing Fe predominately in the +II oxidation state, ferrimagnetic, single-domain greigite (Fe₃S₄) was formed, but the addition of Fe(III) inhibited greigite formation. In media that contained abundant Fe(III) [as schwertmannite; Fe₈O₈(OH)₆SO₄ · nH₂O], the activities of strain GBSRB4.2 enhanced the transformation of schwertmannite to goethite (α-FeOOH), due to the increased pH and Fe(II) concentrations that resulted from the activities of GBSRB4.2.

Common ancestry of iron oxide- and iron-sulfide-based biomineralization in magnetotactic bacteria

Magnetosomes are prokaryotic organelles produced by magnetotactic bacteria that consist of nanometer-sized magnetite (Fe(3)O(4)) or/and greigite (Fe(3)S(4)) magnetic crystals enveloped by a lipid bilayer membrane. In magnetite-producing magnetotactic bacteria, proteins present in the magnetosome membrane modulate biomineralization of the magnetite crystal. In these microorganisms, genes that encode for magnetosome membrane proteins as well as genes involved in the construction of the magnetite magnetosome chain, the mam and mms genes, are organized within a genomic island. However, partially because there are presently no greigite-producing magnetotactic bacteria in pure culture, little is known regarding the greigite biomineralization process in these organisms including whether similar genes are involved in the process. Here using culture-independent techniques, we now show that mam genes involved in the production of magnetite magnetosomes are also present in greigite-producing magnetotactic bacteria. This finding suggest that the biomineralization of magnetite and greigite did not have evolve independently (that is, magnetotaxis is polyphyletic) as once suggested. Instead, results presented here are consistent with a model in which the ability to biomineralize magnetosomes and the possession of the mam genes was acquired by bacteria from a common ancestor, that is, the magnetotactic trait is monophyletic.

Bacterial Magnetosome: A Novel Biogenetic Magnetic Targeted Drug Carrier with Potential Multifunctions

Bacterial magnetosomes (BMs) synthesized by magnetotactic bacteria have recently drawn great interest due to their unique features. BMs are used experimentally as carriers for antibodies, enzymes, ligands, nucleic acids, and chemotherapeutic drugs. In addition to the common attractive properties of magnetic carriers, BMs also show superiority as targeting nanoscale drug carriers, which is hardly matched by artificial magnetic particles. We are presenting the potential applications of BMs as drug carriers by introducing the drug-loading methods and strategies and the recent research progress of BMs which has contributed to the application of BMs as drug carriers.

Biological reduction of uranium--from the laboratory to the field

The chemical and biological processes underlying in situ bioremediation of uranium-contaminated groundwater have been studied in the laboratory and in the field. This article focuses on the long-term stability of uraninite (UO(2)) in the underground. A large tailings pond, 'Dänkritz 1' in Germany, was selected for this investigation. A single-pass flow-through experiment was run in a 100-liter column: bioremediation for 1year followed by infiltration of tap water (2.5years) saturated with oxygen, sufficient to oxidize the precipitated uraninite in two months. Instead, only 1wt.% uraninite was released over 2.4years at concentrations typically less than 20μg/L. Uraninite was protected against oxidation by the mineral mackinawite (FeS(0.9)), a considerable amount of which had formed, together with uraninite. A confined field test was conducted adjacent to the tailings pond, which after bio-stimulation showed similarly encouraging results as in the laboratory. Taking Dänkritz 1 as an example we show that in situ bioremediation can be a viable option for long-term site remediation, if the process is designed based on sufficient laboratory and field data. The boundary conditions for the site in Germany are discussed.

Bacterial biomineralization: new insights from Myxococcus-induced mineral precipitation

Bacteria have contributed to the formation of minerals since the advent of life on Earth. Bacterial biomineralization plays a critical role on biogeochemical cycles and has important technological and environmental applications. Despite the numerous efforts to better understand how bacteria induce/mediate or control mineralization, our current knowledge is far from complete. Considering that the number of recent publications on bacterial biomineralization has been overwhelming, here we attempt to show the importance of bacteria–mineral interactions by focusing in a single bacterial genus, Myxococcus, which displays an unusual capacity of producing minerals of varying compositions and morphologies. First, an overview of the recent history of bacterial mineralization, the most common bacteriogenic minerals and current models on bacterial biomineralization is presented. Afterwards a description of myxobacteria is presented, followed by a section where Myxococcus-induced precipitation of a number of phosphates, carbonates, sulphates, chlorides, oxalates and silicates is described and discussed in lieu of the information presented in the first part. As concluding remarks, implications of bacterial mineralization and perspectives for future research are outlined. This review strives to show that the mechanisms which control bacterial biomineralization are not mineral- or bacterial-specific. On the contrary, they appear to be universal and depend on the environment in which bacteria dwell.

Nonmagnetotactic multicellular prokaryotes from low-saline, nonmarine aquatic environments and their unusual negative phototactic behavior

Magnetotactic multicellular prokaryotes (MMPs) are unique magnetotactic bacteria of the Deltaproteobacteria class and the first found to biomineralize the magnetic mineral greigite (Fe(3)S(4)). Thus far they have been reported only from marine habitats. We questioned whether MMPs exist in low-saline, nonmarine environments. MMPs were observed in samples from shallow springs in the Great Boiling Springs geothermal field and Pyramid Lake, both located in northwestern Nevada. The temperature at all sites was ambient, and salinities ranged from 5 to 11 ppt. These MMPs were not magnetotactic and did not contain magnetosomes (called nMMPs here). nMMPs ranged from 7 to 11 microm in diameter, were composed of about 40 to 60 Gram-negative cells, and were motile by numerous flagella that covered each cell on one side, characteristics similar to those of MMPs. 16S rRNA gene sequences of nMMPs show that they form a separate phylogenetic branch within the MMP group in the Deltaproteobacteria class, probably representing a single species. nMMPs exhibited a negative phototactic behavior to white light and to wavelengths of < or =480 nm (blue). We devised a "light racetrack" to exploit this behavior, which was used to photoconcentrate nMMPs for specific purposes (e.g., DNA extraction) even though their numbers were low in the sample. Our results show that the unique morphology of the MMP is not restricted to marine and magnetotactic prokaryotes. Discovery of nonmagnetotactic forms of the MMP might support the hypothesis that acquisition of the magnetosome genes involves horizontal gene transfer. To our knowledge, this is the first report of phototaxis in bacteria of the Deltaproteobacteria class.

Formation of Fe-sulfides in cultures of sulfate-reducing bacteria

The purpose of this study was to synthesize Fe-sulfides produced with sulfate-reducing bacteria under experimental laboratory conditions. Fe-sulfides were precipitated with biologically produced sulfide in cultures growing at 22, 45, and 60 degrees C for up to 16 weeks. Abiotic controls were prepared by reacting liquid media with Na(2)S solutions. Precipitates were collected anaerobically, freeze-dried and analyzed by X-ray diffraction. Additional analyses included total Fe and S content, magnetic susceptibility, specific surface area, and scanning electron microscopy. Mackinawite (FeS) and greigite (Fe(3)S(4)) were the dominant iron sulfide phases formed in sulfate-reducing bacterial cultures. An increase in the incubation temperature from 22 to 60 degrees C enhanced the crystallinity of the Fe-sulfides. Generally, greigite was more prevalent in abiotic samples and mackinawite in biogenic materials. Pyrite (FeS(2)) was also found in abiotic precipitates. Abiotic samples had a higher magnetic susceptibility because of the greigite and displayed improved crystallinity compared to biotic materials.

Uranium in framboidal pyrite from a naturally bioreduced alluvial sediment

Samples of a naturally bioreduced, U-contaminated alluvial sediment were characterized with various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques and wet chemical extraction methods. The objective was to investigate U association and interaction with minerals of the sediment. Bioreduced sediment comprises approximately 10% of an alluvial aquifer adjacent to the Colorado River, in Rifle, CO, that was the site of a former U milling operation. Past and ongoing research has demonstrated that bioreduced sediment is elevated in solid-associated U, total organic carbon, and acid-volatile sulfide, and depleted in bioavailable Fe(III) confirming that sulfate and Fe(III) reduction have occurred naturally in the sediment. SEM/EDS analyses demonstrated that framboidal pyrites (FeS(2)) of different sizes ( approximately 10-20 microm in diameter), and of various microcrystal morphology, degree of surface weathering, and internal porosity were abundant in the <53 microm fraction (silt + clay) of the sediment and absent in adjacent sediments that were not bioreduced. SEM-EMPA, XRF, EXAFS, and XANES measurements showed elevated U was present in framboidal pyrite as both U(VI) and U(IV). This result indicates that U may be sequestered in situ under conditions of microbially driven sulfate reduction and pyrite formation. Conversely, such pyrites in alluvial sediments provide a long-term source of U under conditions of slow oxidation, contributing to the persistence of U of some U plumes. These results may also help in developing remedial measures for U-contaminated aquifers.

Modeling the environmental stability of FeS2 nanorods, using lessons from biomineralization

Previous experimental studies have indicated that the controlled formation of anisotropic pyrite nanoparticles, such as nanorods or nanowires, is dependent on the right combination of solution chemistry and temperature. Similarly, the morphology of the individual nanocrystals during intracellular biomineralization of single nanocrystals has been attributed to the local environmental conditions, as well as the species of the micro-organism. Although there are obvious similarities, using the lessons from biomineralization to assist the laboratory synthesis of anisotropic pyrite nanostructures, and in the anticipation of environmental stability, requires a more detailed understanding of the role played by individual environmental parameters. In the present study we use a multi-scale thermodynamic model, combined with parameters obtained from first principles calculations, to investigate the formation and stability of pyrite nanorods as a function of temperature and chemical environment. The results of our systematic modeling of parameter space predict that the morphology of pyrite nanorods grown in the laboratory, or associated with biomineralization, is more likely to be a function of surface ligands and the biology of the organisms than a function of simpler environmental parameters such as temperature, pressure, concentration of sulfur and adsorption of water.

Ultrastructure, tactic behaviour and potential for sulfate reduction of a novel multicellular magnetotactic prokaryote from North Sea sediments

Multicellular magnetotactic prokaryotes (MMPs) represent highly organized, spherical and motile aggregates of 10-40 bacterial cells containing magnetosomes. Although consisting of different cells, each with its own magnetosomes and flagellation, MMPs orient themselves within a magnetic field and exhibit magnetotaxis. So far, MMPs have only been found in several North and South American coastal lagoons and salt marshes. In the present study, a novel type of MMP was discovered in coastal tidal sand flats of the North Sea. High-resolution scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of bullet-shaped magnetosomes which were aligned in several parallel chains. Within each aggregate, the magnetosome chains of individual cells were oriented in the same direction. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis showed that the magnetosomes are composed of iron sulfide. This particular morphology and arrangement of magnetosomes has previously not been reported for other MMPs. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed a single phylotype which represented a novel phylogenetic lineage with >or= 4% sequence divergence to all previously described MMP sequences and was related to the dissimilatory sulfate-reducing Desulfosarcina variabilis within the family Desulfobacteraceae of the subphylum Deltaproteobacteria. Fluorescence in situ hybridization with a specific oligonucleotide probe revealed that all MMPs in the tidal flat sediments studied belonged to the novel phylotype. Within each MMP, all bacterial cells showed a hybridization signal, indicating that the aggregates are composed of cells of the same phylotype. Genes for dissimilatory sulfite reductase (dsrAB) and dissimilatory adenosine-5'-phosphate reductase (aprA) could be detected in purified MMP samples, suggesting that MMPs are capable of sulfate reduction. Chemotaxis assays with 41 different test compounds yielded strong responses towards acetate and propionate, whereas other organic acids, alcohols, sugars, sugar alcohols or sulfide did not elicit any response. By means of its coordinated magnetotaxis and chemotaxis, the novel type of MMP is well adapted to the steep chemical gradients which are characteristic for intertidal marine sediments.

Ultrastructural evidence for iron accumulation within the tube of Vestimentiferan Ridgeia piscesae

This study reports on the accumulation of iron within the tube wall of the deep sea vent macro invertebrate Vestimentiferan Ridgeia piscesae collected from Juan de Fuca ridge. Combining an array of approaches including environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM), electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA), X-ray microanalysis (EDS) and transmission electron microscope (TEM), we provide evidences for the influence of prokaryotic organisms on the accumulation of metals on and within the tube wall. Two types of iron-rich minerals such as iron oxides and framboidal pyrites are identified within or on the tube wall. Our results reveal the presence of prokaryotic organism is apparently responsible for the early accumulation of iron-rich minerals in the tube wall. The implications of the biomineralisation of iron in tube wall at hydrothermal vents are discussed.