Metabolic Pathway of Microorganisms - Iron (Fe2+) Oxidation

3 important questions on Metabolic Pathway of Microorganisms - Iron (Fe2+) Oxidation

Why is the bioenergetics of ferrous iron oxidation by A. Ferrooxidans of interest?

Fe3+/Fe2+ is a very electropositive oxidator, which means that there are few steps in the electron transport to oxygen. Also, the relatively poor energetic yield from this oxidation coupled with the large energetic demands of the Calvin cycle means that A. Ferrooxidans must oxidize large amounts of Fe2+ to produce a small amount of cell material.

How do the bioenergetics of ferrous iron oxidation by A. Ferrooxidans work?

Fe2+ is oxidized to Fe3+ by an outer membrane cytochrome c that transfer electrons into the periplasm where rusticanin is the electron acceptor. Rusticyanin reduces periplasmic cytochrome c, which transfers  electrons to cytochrome aafont-weight3, which reduces O2 to H2O.

Can ferrous iron be oxidized under anoxic conditions?

Yes, ferrous iron can be oxidized under anoxic conditions by chemolithotrophs. Fe2+ is either an electron donor in energy metabolism and/or a reductant for CO2 fixation. The reduction potential is more electronegative at neutral pH than at acidic pH.

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

  • A unique study and practice tool
  • Never study anything twice again
  • Get the grades you hope for
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
Trustpilot Logo