Impact of Molecular Hydrogen on Chalcopyrite Bioleaching by the Extremely Thermoacidophilic Archaeon <i>Metallosphaera sedula</i>

Abstract

Hydrogen served as a competitive inorganic energy source, impacting the CuFeS(2) bioleaching efficiency of the extremely thermoacidophilic archaeon Metallosphaera sedula. Open reading frames encoding key terminal oxidase and electron transport chain components were triggered by CuFeS(2). Evidence of heterotrophic metabolism was noted after extended periods of bioleaching, presumably related to cell lysis.