Genetic Analysis of Nitroaromatic Degradation by Clostridium
Abstract
2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) is the most widely used nitroaromatic compound, which is recalcitrant to degradation and has presented an environmental issue at many sites. Among different microorganisms that act in TNT biodegradation, clostridium species were distinguished for their rapid degradation rate. Here we compared different C. acetobutylicum strains for degradation of TNT in vivo. A series of mutant strains derived from C. acetobutylicum ATCC 824, were tested for TNT degradation and only minor differences were observed. These studies showed that TNT was an effective competitor for reductant in cells and that TNT reduction altered the metabolic pattern of the culture. A number of clostridial strains were obtained and some tested for TNT degradation during growth on different carbon sources. Samples for microarray analysis were also obtained from various strains during the TNT degradation process. Analysis of the data from microarray experiments performed by the laboratory of C. Sund showed several genes related to redox were affected. Other molecules with TNT-like redox potentials were tested for their effects on metabolite pattern. Phenazine, a molecule produced by some soil bacteria was found to have a significant effect on metabolite pattern in two clostridium test strains and similar to that found with TNT.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 30, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA592335
Entities
People
- George N Bennett
Organizations
- Rice University