Role and potential of the semi-classical/-quantum mechanism of the extracellular environment and cell envelope in Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer (DIET)-driven biomethanation
Uali A.S. Lam T.Y.C. Huang X. Wu Z. Shih H.J. Tan G.-Y. Lee P.-H.
2024Taylor and Francis Ltd.
Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology
2024#54Issue 7581 - 601 pp.
The extracellular electron transfer (EET) capability of Methanosarcina spp. in direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) has profoundly increased our understanding of microbial kinetics and energetics in biomethanation systems. In Methanosarcina spp., such EET mechanisms occur in the cell envelope and biofilm matrix. These substances are composed of protein-like, polysaccharide-rich biomolecular structures that were previously thought to contribute only to cell support and shape; while their participation in dynamic processes remains unclear and has gathered widespread interest. This review first addresses the molecular structure and chemical characteristics of the extracellular matrix and cell wall polymers in Methanosarcina spp. Next, we focus on recent theoretical studies on the conduction and EET mechanisms of the extracellular matrix and cell wall polymers: tunnelling, hopping, proton-activated electron transfer and voltage-dependent electron transport. We conclude this review by discussing the state-of-the-art electrochemical techniques and experiments and the associated challenges, i.e., the kinetic isotope effect and on–off resonance switching. The border impacts of such conductive pathways may offer a semi-classical/quantum perspective on microbiology and mark the renaissance of anaerobic biotechnology.
cell wall envelope , Chang-Ping Yu and Lena Q. Ma , electron tunnelling , extracellular polymer substances , Methanosarcina , proton conduction , voltage-induced electron transport
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Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
Department of Chemistry, Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Astana, Kazakhstan
Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
West Island School, Hong Kong
Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Department of Chemistry
Department of Civil Engineering
West Island School
Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering
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