How ‘Iron Man’ bacteria could help protect the environment
MSU researchers show how microbes stand up to a toxic metal, opening the door for applications in recycling and remediation
When Michigan State University’s Gemma Reguera first proposed her new research project to the National Science Foundation, one grant reviewer responded that the idea was not “environmentally relevant.”
As other reviewers and the program manager didn’t share this sentiment, NSF funded the proposal. And, now, Reguera’s team has shown that microbes are capable of an incredible feat that could help reclaim a valuable natural resource and soak up toxic pollutants.
Study: Iron Man bacteria could help protect environment ANI | Updated: Jan 08, 2021 23:20 IST
Washington [US], January 8 (ANI): Researchers during a new study have found how some microbes can stand up to a toxic metal. This has led towards opening the door for its applications in recycling and remediation.
This study was published in the journal, Frontiers in Microbiology. When Michigan State University s Gemma Reguera first proposed her new research project to the National Science Foundation, one grant reviewer responded that the idea was not environmentally relevant.
As other reviewers and the program manager didn t share this sentiment, NSF funded the proposal. And, now, Reguera s team has shown that microbes are capable of an incredible feat that could help reclaim a valuable natural resource and soak up toxic pollutants.
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IMAGE: This Geobacter cell which looks a bit like a gray peanut in this microscope image is speckled with a dark coating of cobalt minerals that would be toxic. view more
Credit: Hunter Dulay, MSU
When Michigan State University s Gemma Reguera first proposed her new research project to the National Science Foundation, one grant reviewer responded that the idea was not environmentally relevant.
As other reviewers and the program manager didn t share this sentiment, NSF funded the proposal. And, now, Reguera s team has shown that microbes are capable of an incredible feat that could help reclaim a valuable natural resource and soak up toxic pollutants.