Unlocking the secret chemistry of organosulfur biodegradation

硫元素是生命所必需的。有机硫化合物向无机形态的转化是生物地球化学循环的重要组成部分。这个项目将阐明生物硫磺循环的最后一段的分子细节：有机硫磺分解成矿物形式。将使用一种综合的化学和生物化学方法来阐明碳-硫键是如何被打破的。该项目将提供对有机硫分解的详细分子理解，以允许有机硫回收。这项研究的好处包括用于分解异生有机磺酸盐的潜在生物技术应用，以及减少对农业化肥依赖的可持续方法。

The element sulfur is essential for life. Its transformation between organic-sulfur compounds to inorganic forms is a crucial part of the biogeochemical cycle. This project will elucidate the molecular details of the final leg of the biosulfur cycle: organosulfur breakdown into mineral form. An integrated chemical and biochemical approach will be used to illuminate how the carbon-sulfur bond is broken. This project will deliver a detailed molecular understanding of organosulfur breakdown to permit organosulfur recycling. Benefits of this research include potential biotechnology applications for breaking down xenobiotic organosulfonates and sustainable approaches to reduce dependence on agricultural fertilisers.