Biomolecular Mechanisms of Iron Oxidation in prokaryotes: a protein focused review

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ID: 338457
2026
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Abstract
Iron oxidation by prokaryotes is a fundamental biogeochemical process with broad environmental and biotechnological significance. Despite growing knowledge of iron oxidation pathways at the systems level, the structural and biochemical characterization of individual proteins directly responsible for ferrous iron [Fe(II)] oxidation remains limited. This review provides a critical survey of the molecular knowledge of proteins directly involved in Fe(II) oxidation across phylogenetically diverse microorganisms (including acidophilic bacteria and archaea and neutrophilic bacteria) spanning aerobic, anaerobic, and phototrophic metabolic strategies. For each protein (Cyc2, Cyt572, Cyc2PV-1, sulfocyanin, FoxC, PioAB complex, MtoAB complex, and Iro), we discuss structural features, cofactor binding and localization, and redox properties, integrating experimental biochemistry with structural predictions. We further provide an overview of how broader computational approaches, including molecular dynamics simulations and quantum methods, also for redox potential calculations, can complement experimental data to yield mechanistic insights into iron oxidation. Finally, we highlight existing knowledge gaps and outline biotechnological applications (including bioleaching, wastewater treatment, bioremediation, and bioelectrocatalysis) that stand to benefit from a deeper molecular understanding of these proteins.
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openalex_W7225146326 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Gianmarco D'Antonio, Agnese Roscioni, Alice Romagnoli, Alessandro Becci, Francesca Beolchini, Giovanni Di Muccio, Alessia Amato, Anna La Teana
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Journal FEMS microbiology reviews
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/femsre/fuag055
URL
https://doi.org/10.1093/femsre/fuag055
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