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Inorganic Sulfur Oxidation by Aureobasidium pullulans
K Killham1, N D Lindley, M Wainwright
1Department of Microbiology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2TN, United Kingdom.
Applied and Environmental Microbiology
|October 1, 1981
Summary
This study shows the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans oxidizes sulfur compounds, including intermediates, to sulfate. This enzymatic process highlights fungi
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Biogeochemical cycles
- Fungal metabolism
Background:
- Atmospheric pollution impacts ecosystems.
- Sulfur oxidation is crucial for nutrient cycling.
- Fungi play roles in soil processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate sulfur oxidation by Aureobasidium pullulans.
- Determine if the process is enzymatic.
- Assess the role of phylloplane fungi in sulfur cycling.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of Aureobasidium pullulans from polluted sycamore leaves.
- In vitro oxidation assays of sulfur compounds.
- Analysis of cell-free fungal extracts and protein concentration.
Main Results:
- Aureobasidium pullulans oxidized sulfur to thiosulfate, tetrathionate, and sulfate.
- Fungal intermediates (thiosulfate, tetrathionate) were further oxidized to sulfate.
- Enzymatic activity was confirmed, increasing with protein concentration.
Conclusions:
- Aureobasidium pullulans possesses enzymatic capabilities for sulfur oxidation.
- Fungi may contribute significantly to sulfur oxidation in soil environments.
- This microbial activity impacts the sulfur cycle in polluted areas.