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Title: Electroactive biofilms: how microbial electron transfer enables bioelectrochemical applications

Journal Article · · Journal of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology

Abstract Microbial biofilms are ubiquitous. In marine and freshwater ecosystems, microbe–mineral interactions sustain biogeochemical cycles, while biofilms found on plants and animals can range from pathogens to commensals. Moreover, biofouling and biocorrosion represent significant challenges to industry. Bioprocessing is an opportunity to take advantage of biofilms and harness their utility as a chassis for biocommodity production. Electrochemical bioreactors have numerous potential applications, including wastewater treatment and commodity production. The literature examining these applications has demonstrated that the cell–surface interface is vital to facilitating these processes. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the state of knowledge regarding biofilms’ role in bioprocessing. This mini-review discusses bacterial biofilm formation, cell–surface redox interactions, and the role of microbial electron transfer in bioprocesses. It also highlights some current goals and challenges with respect to microbe-mediated bioprocessing and future perspectives.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
Grant/Contract Number:
AC52-07NA27344; SC0014613
OSTI ID:
1879114
Journal Information:
Journal of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology, Journal Name: Journal of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 49; ISSN 1367-5435
Publisher:
Oxford University PressCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
Germany
Language:
English

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