Living on air: how do bacteria scavenge atmospheric trace gases?

本项目旨在确定细菌氧化大气痕量气体的分子和细胞基础。细菌具有通过进入休眠状态来适应资源限制和环境变化的显着能力。我们的研究表明，它们通过使用大气中的氢和一氧化碳作为能源在这种状态下生存。这个跨学科的项目将通过阐明介导这一过程的三种未表征的酶的调节、机制和整合来确定细菌如何实现这一目标。成果和效益包括了解促进细菌持久性的过程，调节大气成分，从而支持自然生态系统的恢复力。

This project aims to determine the molecular and cellular basis of atmospheric trace gas oxidation by bacteria. Bacteria have a remarkable ability to adapt to resource limitation and environmental change by entering dormant states. Our research has shown they survive in this state by using atmospheric hydrogen and carbon monoxide as energy sources. This interdisciplinary project will determine how bacteria achieve this by elucidating the regulation, mechanism, and integration of the three uncharacterised enzymes that mediate this process. Outcomes and benefits include understanding of the processes that facilitate bacterial persistence, regulate atmospheric composition, and in turn support resilience of natural ecosystems.