12/06/2010
New Approach for Studying Microbes in their Native Environment
Summary
Advances in proteomics techniques are enabling scientists to understand the mechanisms of in situ microbial metabolism associated with DOE relevant environmental processes, including site remediation and carbon sequestration. A multidisciplinary team of DOE researchers working at a field research site in Rifle, Colorado, has developed proteomic techniques to track changes in expressed metabolic pathways for environmentally relevant and dominant metal- and sulfate-reducing bacteria during tests of in situ uranium bioremediation. The team is developing these new techniques to advance the study of microorganisms in their natural environment and to mechanistically link microbial metabolism with changes in geochemistry observed in natural sediments. These approaches are advancing a more predictive understanding of biogeochemical processes associated with in situ uranium bioremediation but are also applicable to a broad range of DOE environmental challenges.
References
Callister, S.J., M.J. Wilkins, C.D. Nicora, K.H. Williams, J.F. Banfield, N.C. Verberkmoes, R.L. Hettich, L. N’Guessan, P.J. Mouser, H. Elifantz, R.D. Smith, D.R. Lovley, M.S. Lipton, and P.E. Long. 2010. “Analysis of Biostimulated Microbial Communities From Two Field Experiments Reveals Temporal and Spatial Differences in Proteome Profiles,” Environmental Science & Technology. ASAP Article. DOI: 10.12021/ES101029f, Published on the web Nov-8-2010.