Bacterial biosilicification: a new insight into the global silicon cycle

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Biogeochemistry
• Biomineralization

Background:

• Biosilicification, the process of converting silicic acid to silica, is well-studied in eukaryotes like diatoms and sponges.
• Prokaryotic biosilicification, particularly in bacteria, has been historically under-researched but is gaining attention due to recent findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in understanding prokaryotic (bacterial and archaeal) biosilicification.
• To discuss both extracellular and newly discovered intracellular bacterial silica formation.
• To explore the implications of bacterial biosilicification for the global silicon cycle.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on prokaryotic biosilicification.
• Synthesis of findings on extracellular silica formation in geothermal environments.
• Summary of studies on intracellular silica deposition and spore encapsulation in bacteria.

Main Results:

• Recent studies reveal significant bacterial and archaeal extracellular biosilicification in geothermal settings.
• Intracellular biosilicification has been recently demonstrated in bacteria.
• Examples include silica encapsulation of Bacillus spores and silicon accumulation in marine cyanobacteria.

Conclusions:

• Prokaryotic biosilicification is a more widespread phenomenon than previously recognized.
• Bacterial silica formation plays a potentially significant role in the global silicon cycle.
• Further research into bacterial mechanisms of biosilicification is warranted.