Ecological Implications of Metal Metabolism by Microorganisms
Year: 1975
Type: article
Abstract: A review is presented of the interrelationship between a group of elements (metals and metalloids) and microorganisms, focusing on how the microorganisms affect the metals and metalloids. Information concerning four major types of transformations found in the biological system are presented. The first type includes complex and chelate formation of metal ions with organic ligands, and the binding to sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen. The second concerns shifts of valences of the metal as a result of the metal being involved in the metabolism of organisms. The third type of metal interaction is the substitution of one metal for another. The last type concerns alkylated metals in biological systems. Microbial degradation of metal-organic compounds is illustrated by a discussion of the decomposition of methylmercury. An attempt is made to give criteria for predicting microbial conversions of ecological significance. The biomethylation of selenium, tellurium, mercury, and arsenic is described. 73 references, 7 figures.
Source: Annual Review of Microbiology
Authors: Arne Jernelöv, Ann-Louise Martin
Language: English
Subfield: Metals and Alloys
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2179864264