The metabolism of hydrogen by extremely thermophilic bacteria: Progress report, April 1988--December 1988

Technical Report · Tue Nov 01 04:00:00 EST 1988

OSTI ID:6545216

Adams, M W.W.

Extremely thermophilic bacteria grow optimally between 80/degree/ and 105/degree/C. They were discovered only recently, little is known of their physiology and biochemistry, and no enzyme has been purified from them. However, they have enormous potential in energy conversions and the production of fuels and chemicals. In this project we are investigating the metabolism of molecular hydrogen (H/sub 2/) by five extremely thermophilic bacteria, selected on the basis of their remarkable physiology and remote phylogenetic positions. Two have been isolated from deep sea hypothermal vents. Our objectives are to grow these organisms on a large scale in vitro and purify their hydrogenases, the enzyme responsible for catalyzing H/sub 2/ activation and H/sub 2/ production, and related redox proteins. Their molecular and catalytic properties will then be determine by biochemical and spectroscopic techniques. The long term goal is to assess the biotechnological potential of these enzymes. 2 refs.

• Research Organization: Georgia Univ., Athens (USA). Dept. of Biochemistry
• DOE Contract Number: FG09-88ER13901
• OSTI ID: 6545216
• Report Number(s): DOE/ER/13901-1; ON: DE89005577
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

550200* -- Biochemistry
59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
BACTERIA
BIOCHEMISTRY
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
CHEMISTRY
DOCUMENT TYPES
ELEMENTS
ENZYMES
GROWTH
HYDROGEN
HYDROGENASES
METABOLISM
MICROORGANISMS
NONMETALS
OPTIMIZATION
OXIDOREDUCTASES
PROGRESS REPORT
PURIFICATION
SUBSTRATES
SULFATE-REDUCING BACTERIA
TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE