Microbial interactions with metals/radionuclides: The basis of bioremediation

Geoffrey M. Gadd (Lead / Corresponding author)

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (peer-reviewed)peer-review

    20 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    This chapter reviews certain microbiological processes that are of significance in determining radionuclide/metal mobility and that have actual or potential applications in bioremediation of metal/radionuclide and metalloid pollution. These include autotrophic and heterotrophic leaching, biosorption, reduction, precipitation, and transformation. Radionuclides/metals can be leached from solid matrices and thus solubilized as a result of autotrophic metabolism. Most autotrophic leaching is carried out by chemolithotrophic, acidophilic bacteria that fix carbon dioxide and obtain energy from the oxidation of ferrous iron or reduced sulfur compounds. Heterotrophic leaching is discussed in the chapter. Heterotrophic metabolism can also lead to leaching, and this is most important in the case of fungi. Leaching occurs as a result of several processes, including the efflux of protons from hyphae and the production of siderophores, but in most fungal strains, leaching occurs mainly by the production of organic acids. Biosorption is also discussed in the chapter.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationInteractions of Microorganisms with Radionuclides
    EditorsM. J. Keith-Roach, F. R. Livens
    PublisherElsevier
    Chapter6
    Pages179-203
    Number of pages25
    Volume2
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2002

    Publication series

    NameRadioactivity in the Environment
    ISSN (Print)1569-4860

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • General Environmental Science
    • General Earth and Planetary Sciences

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