M. Wissink (Martijn)

Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas that is 86 times stronger than CO2 in the first 20 years after emission. A substantial part of the currently increasing methane emissions can be linked to methanogenic microbes in wetlands and water systems. Before reaching the atmosphere, however, methanotrophic microbes can convert CH4 back to CO2. In the absence of oxygen this process is called anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM). Microbes responsible for AOM include a group of archaea called ‘Candidatus Methanoperedens’ and a group of bacteria referred to as ‘Candidatus Methylomirabilis’. These freshwater microbes are found in complex microbial communities. In this project the dynamics of AOM communities will be studied by selectively inhibiting bacteria or methanotrophic archaea. This knowledge can then be used to isolate single methanotrophic species. One of the knowledge gaps on anaerobic methane oxidizing archaea (ANME) includes the proteins involved in transfer of electrons derived from methane oxidation to electron acceptors such as nitrate and metal(oid)s. Through purification, functional characterization and structural analysis this project aims to better understand the electron transfer pathways in ANME. Together, the results of this project will aid in our understanding of the microbial methane cycle.

• Biochemistry and Physiology of Anaerobic Methanotrophic Microorganisms