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Towards a computational model of a methane producing archaeum
Joseph R Peterson1, Piyush Labhsetwar2, Jeremy R Ellermeier3
1Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
Archaea (Vancouver, B.C.)
|April 15, 2014
Summary
This study models Methanosarcina acetivorans methanogenesis, detailing cell size and protein complexes. The kinetic model accurately predicts methane production, highlighting key enzymes like methyl-coenzyme-M reductase (Mcr).
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Systems Biology
Background:
- Methanogenic archaea are crucial for the carbon cycle.
- Understanding Methanosarcina acetivorans provides insights into microbial metabolism.
- A complete model is needed to understand cellular processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a kinetic model of methanogenesis in Methanosarcina acetivorans.
- To characterize cell size and key protein complex abundance.
- To identify key factors influencing methane production rates.
Main Methods:
- Differential interference contrast microscopy for cell size.
- Single molecule pull down (SiMPull) for protein copy number.
- Kinetic modeling integrating biochemical data and RNA-seq.
Main Results:
- Cell size varies with growth substrate (methanol vs. acetate).
- Model accurately predicts methane production rates on methanol.
- Model sensitivity analysis identified Mcr and Mtr proteins as critical.
Conclusions:
- The kinetic model provides a framework for understanding M. acetivorans metabolism.
- Key enzymes like Mcr and Mtr are crucial for efficient methanogenesis.
- Further integration with transcriptional regulation is planned for dynamic modeling.
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