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A solvent tolerant isolate of Enterobacter aerogenes
Anshu Gupta1, Rajni Singh, S K Khare
1Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, Hauz-Khas, New Delhi-110 016, India.
Bioresource Technology
|September 13, 2005
Summary
A novel strain of Enterobacter aerogenes, isolated from soil, demonstrates tolerance to organic solvents. This solvent-tolerant bacterium shows potential for bioremediation of industrial wastes contaminated with organic solvents and heavy metals.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Industrial processes often generate solvent-rich waste streams.
- Bioremediation offers a sustainable approach to treat such hazardous wastes.
- Microbial tolerance to organic solvents is crucial for effective bioremediation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize solvent-tolerant microorganisms from soil.
- To assess the potential of Enterobacter aerogenes for treating solvent-contaminated waste.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of Enterobacter aerogenes using cyclohexane enrichment.
- Cultivation in media with varying organic solvent concentrations.
- Biomass assessment and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Main Results:
- A solvent-tolerant Enterobacter aerogenes strain was successfully isolated.
- High cyclohexane concentrations (20%) increased lag phase and reduced biomass.
- TEM revealed cell membrane convolutions and solvent accumulation.
- The isolate tolerated organic solvents with log P > 3.2 and mercury.
Conclusions:
- Enterobacter aerogenes exhibits significant solvent tolerance.
- The strain has potential applications in the bioremediation of solvent-rich industrial wastes.
- Further research can explore its efficacy in mixed-contaminant waste treatment.