A novel microbial process breaking through the nitrogen cycling

氮的转化是地球上生命的核心。这个项目将挑战一个有百年历史的模式，即微生物必须在团队中合作，将氮从有机形式转化为无机形式。我们将首次对一种新的工艺进行系统研究，在这种工艺中，单个有机体介导完全的氨化和氨氧化，直接连接有机氮和无机氮。通过揭示代谢途径、表征生态生理特性、分离关键微生物并探索其应用潜力，该项目将改变我们对全球氮循环的基本认识，提高水管理的可持续性，并为循环经济转型做出贡献。

Nitrogen transformation is central to life on Earth. This project will challenge a century-old paradigm that microorganisms must cooperate in a team to convert nitrogen from organic- to inorganic forms. We will carry out the first-ever systematic investigation of a novel process, where a single organism mediates complete ammonification and ammonia oxidation, directly connecting organic- and inorganic nitrogen. By revealing metabolic pathways, characterising ecophysiological properties, isolating key microorganisms and exploring their application potential, this project will change our fundamental understanding of global nitrogen cycling, improve the sustainability of water management, and contribute to the circular economy transition