Insight into interactions between syntrophic bacteria and archaea in anaerobic digestion amended with conductive materials

Microbial communities play an important role in various biochemical and metabolic reactions that occur in natural and engineered anaerobic systems. Methanogenic syntrophy is an integral part of global carbon recycling, waste decomposition, and biofuel production. The electron transfer in microorganisms is an essential process in numerous reactions, particularly those controlled by symbiotic associations. Electron transfer between species occurs through the production of metabolites (such as hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and formate) by bacterial fermentation, which is then consumed by methanogens. The discovery of direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET), where intercellular interactions permit the exchange of extracellular electrons between microorganisms, is vital for many biochemical processes. Therefore, understanding the interactions between microbial communities is essential for designing effective biological treatment processes. This article provides a comprehensive overview of electron transfer mechanisms for methane generation from organic matter. It also describes the effectiveness of various conductive materials to improve interspecies interactions for enhanced bioenergy production and provides suggestions for nanoparticles (NPs) application for DIET and methane enhancement.

Automated summary

Microbial communities play a crucial role in various biochemical and metabolic reactions in natural and engineered anaerobic systems. Understanding electron transfer and interactions between microbial communities is essential for effective biological treatment processes and bioenergy production. Direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) and the use of nanoparticles show promise for enhancing methane production and interspecies interactions.