Iron Absorption in Microorganisms

Function

Some microorganisms release compounds called “siderophores” into the extracellular environment when they are deficient in iron. Siderophores absorb iron from the surrounding environment, which is then transferred to the microorganism across its cellular membrane.

Functional Classification

Form/Organization/System:
Environmental improvement
Defense/Stability:
Pest controlMicrobe/germ resistance

Environmental Solution Classification

Related Literature

Yokota S. Kagaku to Seibutsu. Sci and Bio. 2003(41:5):289-291.

Technical Application

Products and Services

Type of Business

Proposals of Applied Technology

When siderophore-producing microorganisms are bred in soil, non-siderophore-producing microorganisms become iron deficient. We can advance pesticide-free agricultural practices by harnessing the ability to suppress pathogenic bacteria activity in soil by depriving it of the iron needed for proper functioning. The same principle can be applied to research on organisms that assimilate metal substances besides iron, leading to detoxification technology for heavy-metal pollution (including lead pollution).

Proposals of Applied Industry

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