C14-HSL Quorum Sensing Signal Molecules: Promoting Role in Chalcopyrite Bioleaching Efficiency
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: N-tetradecanoyl-L-homoserine lactone (C14-HSL) is a long-chain signaling molecule belonging to acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs), which is widely present in the quorum sensing (QS) system of Gram-negative bacteria. In this study, the effects of C14-HSL on chalcopyrite bioleaching mediated by Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans (A. ferrooxidans) were investigated. After cultivating A. ferrooxidans with different energy substrates and exploring the potential mechanisms of signal molecule production, chalcopyrite was selected as the energy substrate for further study. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the high binding affinity between AHL and the receptor protein AfeR in A. ferrooxidans was beneficial for the activation of transcription by the AfeR-AHL complex, promoting their biological impact. The variations in the physicochemical parameters of pH, redox potential, and copper ions revealed that after adding C14-HSL, the leaching rate of chalcopyrite increased (1.15 times during the initial 12 days). Further analysis of the mechanism of extracellular polymers formation indicated that the presence of C14-HSL could promote the formation of biofilms and the adhesion of bacteria, facilitating mineral leaching rate of A. ferrooxidans. This research provides a theoretical basis for regulating the biological leaching process of chalcopyrite and metal recovery using signaling molecules, which could also be used to control environmental damage caused by acid mine/rock drainage.
Source: Minerals
DOI: 10.3390/min15121248
Authors: Shiqi Chen, Wang Luo, Zexing Yao, Yiran Li, Xinhong Wu, Nazidi Ibrahim, Shadab Begum, Yili Liang
Institution: Central South University
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W4416723879