plutoniumilla

Plutoniumilla is a genus of bacteria from the family Nitrospinaceae, which is part of the phylum Proteobacteria. This genus was first described in 2008 and currently includes two known species: Plutoniumilla stutzeri and Plutoniumilla lithiotrophica. These bacteria are notable for their ability to reduce plutonium, a radioactive element, to a less toxic form. This process is of significant interest in the field of bioremediation, as it offers a potential method for the cleanup of plutonium-contaminated environments.

Plutoniumilla species are typically found in environments with high concentrations of plutonium, such as nuclear waste sites. They are aerobic, meaning they require oxygen to survive, and are chemolithoautotrophic, which means they derive energy from the oxidation of inorganic substances. The metabolism of Plutoniumilla involves the reduction of plutonium(VI) to plutonium(IV), which is less soluble and therefore less mobile in the environment. This reduction process is facilitated by specific enzymes produced by the bacteria.

The discovery of Plutoniumilla has provided valuable insights into the microbial diversity and metabolic capabilities of organisms that can interact with radioactive elements. Ongoing research aims to further understand the mechanisms by which these bacteria reduce plutonium and to explore their potential applications in environmental remediation and nuclear waste management.