MICROBIAL RESPIRATION OF URANIUM & CHROMIUM

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This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. The goal of this study is to identify the mechanism by which bacteria respire uranium and chromium. For this work, we are focusing on three strains of bacteria, two Shewanella and a Desulfotomaculum, able to respire or reduce both metals. Using advanced microscopic techniques combined with molecular techniques, we hope to identify the genes and proteins involved in the process. TEM, EFTEM and EELS are used to identify the localization and the oxidation state of the metals within the cell which could provide insight into the mechanism involved. Specifically, it will help identify the location of the reduction activity within the cell. The practical application of this work is to improve the knowledge basis for the design of bioremediation strategies. Reduced U and Cr are insoluble and less toxic than their oxidized counterparts. By promoting reduction in a groundwater environment, the toxic metals are immobilized and are less likely to affect drinking or surface water downstream.