Microbial nitrogen removal and the molecular mechanisms underlying modulation and switching of dissimilatory nitrate reduction pathways in Shewanella strains

Abstract:

Although the large scale of industrial nitrogen fixation and chemical nitrogen fertilizer application have increased crop yields and alleviated food crisis, the excess discharge of nitrogen nutrients have affected the environment and human health. The treatment of nitrogen contamination is largely dependent on the nitrogen cycle driven by microorganisms. In the last three decades, researchers have discovered the inorganic nitrogen metabolism pathways such as anaerobic ammonia oxidation (Anammox), complete ammonia oxidation (Comammox), and direct ammonia oxidation (Dirammox). Shewanella, a genus of known bacteria with abundant respiration pathways, are ubiquitous in natural habitats and have potential applications in both microbial fuel cells and environmental bioremediation. In this review, we described the modulation mechanisms of denitrification and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium pathways in Shewanella from the nitrate reductase systems, regulation of the cyclic AMP (cAMP) receptor proteins (Crp), and modulation and switching of nitrate reduction pathways, aiming to give insights into the microbial-driven nitrogen cycling mechanism in the hydrosphere and the development of novel biotechniques and bioreactors for the removal and mitigation of nitrogen pollution.