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Characterizing Electron Transport through Living Biofilms
Published on: June 1, 2018
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Prophage Induction Causes Geobacter Electroactive Biofilm Decay.
Xing Liu1, Yin Ye1, Zhishuai Zhang1
1Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
Environmental Science & Technology
|March 30, 2023
Summary
Lysogenic phages cause electroactive biofilm (EAB) decay in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). This phage attack leads to reduced power generation and biofilm loss, impacting bioelectrochemical system performance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bioelectrochemical Systems
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Maintaining electroactive biofilms (EABs) is crucial for microbial fuel cell (MFC) efficiency and longevity.
- The long-term decay of EABs has been a persistent problem, with underlying causes remaining largely unknown.
- Understanding EAB stability is key to advancing sustainable bioenergy technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the cause of electroactive biofilm (EAB) decay in microbial fuel cells (MFCs).
- To investigate the role of bacteriophages in the long-term stability of electroactive biofilms.
- To explore potential strategies for mitigating EAB decay in bioelectrochemical systems.
Main Methods:
- Genome analysis and cross-streak assays to detect prophages in *Geobacter sulfurreducens*.
- Mitomycin C induction assays to trigger lysogenic-to-lytic phage transitions.
- Experimental manipulation including phage addition and deletion of prophage genes to assess impact on EAB and current generation.
Main Results:
- Prophages were identified in the *Geobacter sulfurreducens* genome, capable of undergoing lysogenic-to-lytic conversion.
- Induction of prophages led to progressive EAB decay and decreased current generation in MFCs.
- Addition of purified phages accelerated EAB decay, while deleting prophage genes prevented decay, confirming phage involvement.
Conclusions:
- Bacteriophage activity, specifically lysogenic phages, is a primary driver of electroactive biofilm decay in MFCs.
- This discovery reveals a critical interaction between phages and electroactive bacteria, impacting bioelectrochemical system performance.
- Mitigating phage attacks may be essential for ensuring the durable operation of microbial fuel cells and similar systems.
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