Desulfovibrionaceae

Desulfovibrio alaskensis cells on stainless steel 304

Desulfovibrionaceae are a family of sulfate-reducing bacteria, belonging to the order Desulfovibrionales within the class Deltaproteobacteria. These bacteria are characterized by their ability to reduce sulfate to hydrogen sulfide in anaerobic conditions, a process that plays a crucial role in the sulfur cycle in environments where they are found. Members of the Desulfovibrionaceae family are typically found in anaerobic environments such as sediments, soil, and the gastrointestinal tract of animals.

Characteristics

Desulfovibrionaceae are Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, and usually motile by means of flagella. They are obligate anaerobes that utilize sulfate, sulfite, or thiosulfate as terminal electron acceptors in their energy metabolism, producing hydrogen sulfide as a byproduct. This biochemical capability distinguishes them from other bacteria and is of significant ecological and industrial importance, particularly in the context of biocorrosion and the biogeochemical cycle.

Ecology

The ecological roles of Desulfovibrionaceae are diverse, as they contribute to the sulfur cycle and influence the availability of sulfur in various environments. Their ability to produce hydrogen sulfide can lead to the formation of sulfide minerals and contribute to the corrosion of metals, impacting both natural environments and human-made structures. In the gastrointestinal tract, they are involved in the reduction of sulfate and can influence the health of the host organism.

Genus and Species

The family Desulfovibrionaceae includes several genera, with Desulfovibrio being the most well-known and extensively studied. Other genera include Desulfobulbus, Desulfomicrobium, and Desulfomonile. Each genus comprises multiple species that vary in their specific environmental niches and physiological properties.

Research and Applications

Research on Desulfovibrionaceae has focused on understanding their role in the sulfur cycle, their impact on corrosion in industrial settings, and their potential applications in bioremediation and bioenergy. Their ability to reduce sulfate to hydrogen sulfide under anaerobic conditions has been exploited in the treatment of waste and wastewater, where they can help remove sulfate and other pollutants from contaminated environments.

Health Implications

Some species within the Desulfovibrionaceae family have been associated with diseases in humans and animals, particularly in relation to gut health. The production of hydrogen sulfide by these bacteria can influence the gut environment and has been linked to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colitis. Understanding the role of Desulfovibrionaceae in the gut microbiome is an area of ongoing research, with implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies.

Desulfovibrionaceae Resources
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