Authors: Akhilesh Kumar Mandal, Savita Patra
Abstract: Acidic mine drainage (AMD) environments are characterized by extreme acidity and elevated concentrations of heavy metals, making them inhospitable to most life forms. Yet, microbial life thrives in these ecosystems through unique metabolic adaptations, particularly enzyme systems that function under such harsh conditions. This study explores the functional diversity of microbial enzymes in AMD sites, with a focus on their ecological roles, biogeochemical contributions, and potential applications in bioremediation. Through metagenomic analyses, microbial communities are examined for genes encoding enzymes involved in sulfur and iron oxidation, heavy metal resistance, and acid tolerance. The findings reveal a complex microbial network dominated by acidophilic chemolithoautotrophs such as Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans and Leptospirillum ferrooxidans, which orchestrate critical oxidation-reduction processes. The presence of specialized enzymes like rusticyanin, cytochrome c oxidase, and ATPases adapted for low pH indicates functional specialization. Furthermore, these enzymes facilitate biogeochemical cycling and influence AMD chemistry, contributing to both environmental degradation and potential restoration when harnessed correctly. This study underscores the value of microbial enzyme diversity in understanding AMD ecology and leveraging it for sustainable environmental cleanup strategies.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16870814
