Role of the inner membrane cytochrome ImcH in Geobacter extracellular electron transfer and energy conservation

Abstract

Electroactive bacteria combine the oxidation of carbon substrates with an extracellular electron transfer (EET) process that discharges electrons to an electron acceptor outside the cell. This process involves electron transfer through consecutive redox proteins that efficiently connect the inner membrane to the cell exterior. In this study, we isolated and characterized the quinone-interacting membrane cytochrome c ImcH from Geobacter sulfurreducens, which is involved in the EET process to high redox potential acceptors. Our work provides evidence that ImcH is electroneutral, as it transfers electrons and protons to the same side of the membrane, contributing to the maintenance of a proton motive force, and plays a central role in recycling the menaquinone pool. ImportanceGeobacter sulfurreducens is a model electroactive bacterium, widespread in the environment and of significant interest for biotechnological applications. Its ability to form thick and conductive biofilms on top of conducting surfaces makes this microbe very useful in bioelectrochemical systems for the production of energy or added value products. To explore Geobacter spp. as a biocatalyst it is essential to understand its metabolism, particularly the molecular mechanisms for extracellular electron transfer and energy conservation. Our results reveal the importance of ImcH in both processes, identifying this protein as a major player on Geobacter metabolism.