Microbial reduction of uranium

摘要: REDUCTION of the soluble, oxidized form uranium, U(VI), to insoluble U(IV) is an important mechanism for immobilization uranium in aquatic sediments and formation some ores1–10. U(VI) reduction has generally been regarded as abiological reaction which sulphide, molecular hydrogen or organic compounds function reductant1,2,5,11. Microbial involvement considered be limited indirect effects, such microbial metabolism providing reduced cell walls a surface stimulate reduction1,12,13. We report here, however, that dissimilatory Fe(III)-reducing microorganisms can obtain energy growth by electron transport U(VI). This novel much faster than commonly cited mechanisms reduction. Not only do these findings expand known potential terminal acceptors transduction, they offer likely explanation deposition aquifers, suggest method biological remediation environments contaminated with uranium.