Bacterial nanowires

Proposal of catalyzing bio-voltage memristors

Bacterial Nanowires

Bacterial nanowires are conductive protein filaments that enable long-range extracellular electron transfer in certain species of bacteria. These nanowires play a crucial role in microbial electron transport processes, allowing bacteria to exchange electrons with their environment and participate in various biogeochemical cycles.

Structure and Function

Bacterial nanowires are typically composed of conductive proteins, such as pilin proteins, that form long filaments extending from the bacterial cell membrane. These nanowires facilitate electron transfer between the bacterial cell and external electron acceptors or donors, such as minerals or other microorganisms. The conductivity of these nanowires enables bacteria to respire anaerobically in environments where traditional electron acceptors are limited.

Discovery

The existence of bacterial nanowires was first reported in studies of certain species of dissimilatory metal-reducing bacteria, such as Geobacter sulfurreducens. These bacteria were found to produce conductive nanowires that enhanced their ability to reduce metals and generate electrical currents.

Role in Biogeochemical Cycles

Bacterial nanowires are important players in biogeochemical cycles, particularly in environments where electron transfer is a limiting factor. By facilitating extracellular electron transfer, these nanowires enable bacteria to participate in processes such as iron and manganese reduction, carbon cycling, and methane production.

Applications

Research on bacterial nanowires has sparked interest in various applications, including bioelectrochemical systems, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation technologies. Understanding the mechanisms of electron transfer through nanowires could lead to the development of novel biotechnologies for energy production and environmental remediation.

See Also

• Geobacter sulfurreducens
• Extracellular Electron Transfer
• Microbial Fuel Cells