Readiness to utilize alternative electron acceptors
Induced expression of enzymes related to reduction of nitrate, Fe(III), Mn(IV), and humic acids (Fig. 5) in response to low growth rates agrees with previous studies on Geobactereaceae cultivated in AQDS- or carbon-limited retentostats , insoluble Fe(III) oxides in batch culture or sediments . In addition, at low growth rates, G. metallireducens seemed to increase its iron reduction capabilities by increasing the abundance of flagella and pili biogenesis-related proteins, which are involved in iron reduction